A well-executed tribute can generate almost as much excitement as the genuine article, especially when the target is recreating a classic as desirable as a 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396. That’s what has been achieved with this Chevelle Malibu Sport Coupe, and the photos suggest it needs nothing but a new home. It is listed here on eBay in Sparks, Nevada. Bidding has raced to $43,200 in a No Reserve auction.
The listing indicates that a previous owner transformed this humble Malibu into a stunning SS 396 Tribute. It rolled off the line finished in Cranberry Red, but its laser-straight panels now sport gorgeous Tuxedo Black. The car received a refresh in 2021, leaving it presenting superbly. There are no significant imperfections, with the paint reflecting its surroundings beautifully. It is perfectly contrasted by the Silver stripes and decals that add a touch of class. One desirable feature is the Cowl Induction hood, held in place by a set of pins. This car is more than a pretty face because the underside shots confirm it is rust-free. It retains its original Soft Ray tinted glass that is in excellent order. The creator added the badges and decals required for an accurate SS recreation, and the back bumper is new. The car rolls on spotless 15″ wheels featuring SS center caps.
Matters become serious when we peel away the skin to discover what hides below this Chevelle’s beautiful exterior. The engine bay houses a 396ci V8, with the remaining drivetrain components including a four-speed manual transmission, a 3.08 rear end, and power assistance for the steering and brakes. The air cleaner decal indicates this motor has 350hp and 415 ft/lbs of torque at the driver’s disposal, but I suspect both figures are higher. Hiding below the air cleaner is an Edelbrock aluminum intake, topped by a Holley Atomic EFI system. The big-block exhales via headers, and a dual exhaust and improved breathing will inevitably unleash additional ponies. The seller provides no specific information on how this Malibu runs or drives, but the overall impression suggests the news should be positive.
This Chevelle’s interior presents as impressively as its exterior. It features the attributes you would expect from a vehicle of this caliber. These include bucket seats, a console, and a sports gauge cluster with a tachometer. Aftermarket additions include air conditioning and a retro-style stereo with a trunk-mounted CD changer to improve occupant comfort. The winning bidder won’t need to spend a dime on the inside of this classic because while a close inspection will undoubtedly unearth minor flaws, the upholstered surfaces and carpet look spotless. The dash is immaculate, and the pad is crack-free.
This 1970 Chevelle might not be a genuine SS, but that hasn’t prevented it from generating plenty of interest. It has attracted an impressive thirty-seven bids, and with No Reserve in play, it is days away from finding a new home. This car is hardly cheap, but it will undoubtedly sell for less than an equivalent genuine SS 396. That is the attraction of a Tribute. It provides the looks, performance, and aura of the genuine article. However, it does so at a fraction of the cost. That makes this Chevy worth a close look.
Sweet car like this and you have a pole holding up the hood?
When i had my 72 the springs were on the way out an once the whole hood fell on me so out to GM i went. A set of springs cost me about 40$ in the late 80’s but boy what a job to put’em on and was it ever worth it
yep….and that driveshaft looks a little short…..
A lot of $$$ for a clone??? Nice car though.
Kudos to whoever did the heavy work on this car. Anyone know a ballpark idea of what it would be worth were it still original with, say, a V8? Or a real SS396?
Doesn’t matter, cause it isn’t!
Just curious, David Michael. But thanks for reading.
My guess would be $60000
What’s the chrome vented thing where the heater goes?
Possibly just dress-up chrome? And the gauge just towards the center of the engine bay? I don’t remember something like that. Bottom line, it’s not original but someone spent hours and hours of labor on this fine automobile.
After market heat and air.
It looks like Vintage Air. Everything is under the dash and the heater box in the engine bay gets removed and the opening blanked off with a cover plate.
Part of the AC System?
Sometimes you just enjoy the fact this 53 year car rocks. Who cares about the fact it’s a clone. Beautiful and the
Old girl has years of life ahead of her. Love it
This reminds me of the movie FASTER. And exactly right Patrick, who cares if this is a clone or not. She’s beautiful and got the horses to get you there.
The 3:08 gears are a bit of a surprise. Would like to hear Stan the rear end man’s opinion.
My 1970 Chevelle SS came with white parking lens rather than the yellow. Does this engine have an aluminum intake?
The lenses are clear, the lights are all on in the photo, giving the appearance of amber lenses to some degree. Interesting enough, the 70 El Camino SS uses the Monte Carlo front bumper, with the round parking lights. The Monte uses clear lenses, the El Camino uses amber lenses. This car does appear to have an Edelbrock aluminum intake…
Overall, I think it’s a pretty nice car. But I feel it’s somewhat of a “20 footer”…looks good from 20 feet but upon closer inspection, there are minor issues with the fit and finish, ie, the Chevelle grill emblem has paint missing and the tailpipes are hanging too low. I also see some flaws in the paint. But again, nice car, but not at the asking price.
Unenthusiastic about this–or any–color change. If you want a black car, why not get a black car?
The rarity generally. I don’t remember too many black 307 or 350 Chevelles/Malibu. Same with Camaros, not many ordered it. If you see a code 10 Camaro you should make sure the tag is real.
Completely removed from EBay.
Must have been a scam.
Found it. Identical pictures on a BAT auction that ended on 5/3/23 for $60K.