Although it isn’t a genuine muscle car, this 1969 Chevelle Malibu Sport Coupe makes the right impression courtesy of its spotless presentation and a healthy small-block under the hood. The vehicle has some minor flaws, but the photos and listing suggest the paint could be perfect. The task of addressing the slight imperfections could fall to a new owner, with the Malibu listed here on Craigslist in Newburgh, Indiana. It runs and drives beautifully and could be yours for $33,500. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder T.J. for spotting this fantastic classic.

This Malibu makes a striking first impression, and it is hard not to like its Frost Green paint and contrasting Black vinyl top. Although there is no mention by the seller, the overall presentation of this Chevy is consistent with a classic that has undergone a recent and reasonably meticulous restoration. The seller describes the paint as at least a 9/10, and the supplied photos make it hard to argue with that assessment. There are no signs of any blemishes or patchiness, with the vinyl equally spotless. The panels are as straight as an arrow, with the tight and consistent gaps suggesting someone has taken a lot of time adjusting everything in a quest for perfection. The seller says the Malibu retains its original floors and trunk pan and is entirely rust-free. The chrome and glass are spotless, with the Rally wheels being a later addition that suits this car’s character.

When we begin examining this Malibu’s mechanical combination and health, things become slightly confused. One part of the listing describes the car as “all original” but then suggests that while the motor might be, the transmission isn’t. What we know is the car features a 350ci V8 that sends its power to the rear wheels via a three-speed Turbo 350 automatic transmission. The original Build Sheet confirms that if the engine is numbers-matching, it is the L65 version that should produce 250hp. While that power figure means most high-performance models would show this Malibu a clean set of heals, it should still cover the ¼ mile in 16 seconds. For those seeking a turnkey classic, this Chevelle seems to deliver. It features new shocks, a new battery, and good tires. The seller says it runs and drives exceptionally well, needing nothing but a new owner to slip behind the wheel and enjoy all it has to offer.

It took me a while to find anything of which to be critical with this Malibu, but the interior offered something to consider. It is essentially unmolested, although the seller added new carpet and door seals. The carpet fit is odd in a couple of spots but requires nothing but time and patience from the new owner to address the problem. The most glaring issue is the “baked” area on the outer edge of the driver’s seat. It doesn’t rate a mention from the seller but appears to be the result of harsh UV exposure. I don’t think it is repairable, meaning the new owner may be compelled to spend $350 on a replacement cover in the correct material if they seek perfection. Otherwise, there are no aftermarket additions, and everything works as it should.

For an enthusiast seeking a spotless ’60s classic from the General Motors side of the fence, this 1969 Malibu Sport Coupe could be tempting. It may not have the muscle credentials of an SS 396, but nor does it come with the price tag. For those considering the investment potential, it is worth noting that while the SS 396 has experienced a value drop of around 11% in the past year, the Malibu in this guise has risen by about 8% across the board. The price on this one is getting towards the top end of the market, but there have been recent sales at higher figures. I won’t be surprised if it finds a new home fairly quickly, but are you tempted to make it yours?