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Rust Everywhere: Is This 1969 Chevrolet Chevelle Still Worth the Effort?

1969 Chevrolet Chevelle 15 photos
Photo: Crai
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The Chevelle production increased significantly in 1969, not only thanks to the SS losing the series status and re-becoming a part of the main lineup.
Chevrolet produced over 503K units, up from 464K cars in 1968. The Super Sport package made its way to over 86,000 Chevelles in 1969. The Malibu four-door sedan remained one of the top choices in the Chevelle customer base, accounting for nearly 7,000 cars with a six-cylinder engine and over 32,000 models with a V8.

The Chevelle in these photos no longer has an engine, but it isn't surprising considering its shape. The car has likely been sitting for years, possibly under the clear sky, so it's now a challenging project not aimed at the faint of heart.

The owner admits that "there is rust everywhere," and while the car still comes with some usable parts, the Chevelle will require extensive work in almost every regard.

The engine is no longer in the car, likely as it already served as a donor for another project. However, you get two transmissions. We know nothing about them, so you'll have to inspect everything in person for more details.

The owner didn't share many specifics, letting the photos speak for themselves. And they certainly do tell the full story, as the car looks this close to becoming a rust bucket. The owner says the Chevelle is a roller and will need to be towed, but the good news is that it still comes with a title. It's not salvage (at least, not yet), and the frame is still solid.

Another change the next buyer must have in mind when planning a purchase concerns the transmission. The owner says the car rolled off the assembly lines with a manual unit under the hood, but someone previously removed the clutch and converted the Chevelle into an automatic car. Theoretically, the swap leaves the door open to either configuration, so if you buy this Chevelle, you can decide which way to go.

The Chevelle's only option is a complete restoration, and despite the extensive damage, the owner doesn't want to let the car go cheaply. They believe $3,000 is a fair price, and that's why I decided to ask you if the Chevelle is worth the effort.

I'd hate to see another Chevy die, but saving this Chevelle isn't an easy project, and I doubt someone with the right skills in the restoration business wants to embark on such a difficult mission, considering the rust damage and the missing parts.

The owner doesn't seem open to in-person inspections, claiming they're not interested in negotiating the price either. If you agree with all these conditions, you'll have to pick up the car from Egg Harbor, New Jersey.
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About the author: Bogdan Popa
Bogdan Popa profile photo

Bogdan keeps an eye on how technology is taking over the car world. His long-term goals are buying an 18-wheeler because he needs more space for his kid’s toys, and convincing Google and Apple that Android Auto and CarPlay deserve at least as much attention as their phones.
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