It is often important not to judge a book by its cover. That is certainly the case with this 1967 Chevrolet Chevelle Malibu. Its baked paint and the presence of surface corrosion doesn’t bode well, but it is actually a rock-solid survivor featuring its original 283ci V8 under the hood. The lack of penetrating rust makes it an ideal first restoration project for someone wishing to follow the DIY path. The seller has listed the Malibu here on eBay in Las Vegas, Nevada. Bidding sits below the reserve at $4,750 with plenty of time remaining for interested parties to stake their claim on this beauty.

The Chevelle badge joined Chevrolet’s range for the 1964 model year, and found immediate sales success in the showroom. The company performed a significant styling update in 1966, before unveiling a new model in 1968. This Chevelle rolled off the line in 1967 as one of the final First Generation examples. The first owner ordered it in Marina Blue, with the seller indicating that the paint is original. The car’s location makes the baked appearance unsurprising, because the Arizona sun can exact a high toll on paint and trim. However, the trade-off is that it is also excellent at preserving steel, making this Malibu’s rust-free status unsurprising. The exterior looks clean, while the underside shots reveal no issues that would require the use of grinders and welders. Stripping away the existing paint would seem the obvious first step in returning this classic to its former glory, although some may find the prospect of preservation to be irresistible.

This Chevelle’s interior is surprising when we consider how baked the exterior is. I expected to find significant UV damage, but the condition is far better than many may expect. The front seatcover, carpet, and painted surfaces require attention, there is wheel wear, and the faux woodgrain shows its age. However, the dashpad hasn’t waved the white flag, and the remaining Blue vinyl trim should present acceptably with a deep clean. The first owner didn’t load it with factory options, although most potential buyers will welcome the AM radio.

Chevrolet offered 1967 Chevelle buyers a broad range of engines to power their new purchase. This car left the factory with a 283ci V8 under the hood. A two-speed Powerglide transmission and power steering round out the mechanical package, with the seller stating that this two-owner survivor has a genuine 95,000 miles on the clock. Pursists will welcome the news that not only is this Malibu numbers-matching, but that it runs and drives well. A tune-up would improve its performance, and the seller advises that replacing the tires, which they describe as “junk,” would be wise before hitting the road in earnest.

The dry location has helped this 1967 Chevrolet Chevelle Malibu to survive without suffering the rust issues that would make any restoration a significant undertaking. It will require work to return to its former glory, and some readers may view it as the ideal candidate for a stunning SS tribute. Others might find the concept of preservation irresistible, allowing this Malibu to proclaim its status as a genuine survivor proudly. Which path would you choose?