You can’t go wrong with a second-generation Chevelle. It’s one of the best-looking muscle cars of its era and what’s funny is that some people don’t realize just how different those early second-gen variants were compared to the updated 1970 model year version.
Park a ‘69 Chevelle next to a ‘70 Chevelle and it’ll almost feel like you’re looking at two completely different vehicles. The second-gen Chevelle was only out two years before GM decided to apply a thorough facelift, which included a heavily updated front fascia, a new rear, plus sheet metal revisions resulting in a more “coke bottle styling”.
It’s almost like they’re a generation apart, but they’re not, and I’m here for it – I think both look equally good. It’s just a matter of which design speaks to you more.
Sticking with the 1969 model year version, also known as “American’s most popular mid-size car” at the time, we’ve just found an awesome spec for your viewing pleasure in this Malibu Sport Coupe variant. It’s been modified to look and drive better, and up until recently, it was up for grabs to the highest bidder.
The thing is, the car didn’t sell, because the top bid ($44,000) failed to meet the reserve set by the owner. We don’t know exactly how much they would have wanted for it, but my guess is upwards of $50k, despite this not being a numbers-matching Malibu SS 396 Sport Coupe, as the badging would have you believe.
Visually, we’re dealing with a red exterior featuring black side stripes, a twin-domed hood, chrome bumpers, and a set of multi-spoke 18” wheels with 245/45 front and 285/45 rear Pirelli P Zero tires. It’s worth noting that there are various scratches along the front fenders, as well as imperfections on the body.
This modified Chevelle also comes with custom suspension components, such as the coilovers or the Musclebar sway bar. Oh, and yes, it’s got power steering, in case you were wondering.
Photo: Bring a Trailer
Meanwhile, interior highlights include the black vinyl front bucket and rear bench seats, a Shiftworks shifter kit, Vintage Air climate control system, a Pioneer head unit, plus a woodgrain-rimmed steering wheel and Dakota Digital instrumentation.
As for what’s going on underneath the hood, well, hold on to your seats. This American classic is powered by a BluePrint Engines 496 ci V8 unit, fitted with Stainless Works headers, a Milodon oil pan, a Holley 850 carburetor, and a black air cleaner assembly and valve covers. Power is sent to the rear wheels via a 700R4 four-speed automatic transmission, while the dual exhaust system boasts Stainless Works mufflers to produce a nice soundtrack.
According to a dyno sheet provided by the seller, this car is putting down 482 horsepower and 583 lb-ft (790 Nm) of torque, which is a lot of pulling power.
Now, while some people might prefer their vintage Chevelles to be numbers-matching gems, I don’t think the crate motor affected the sale negatively, in this case. But what do you guys think? Is this Chevelle worth more than $44k, and if so, what would be a fair price?
Sergiu got to experience both American and European car "scenes" at an early age (his father drove a Ford Fiesta XR2 supermini in the 80s). After spending over 15 years at local and international auto publications, he's starting to appreciate comfort behind the wheel more than raw power and acceleration. Full profile
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