1975 Chevrolet Chevelle Malibu Hardtop 

The third generation Chevelle, ('73-'77), represented a major redesign in the 10-year-old Chevelle model and included some “firsts”.  Molded foam seats appeared for the first time as did an inside hood release.  Thin A-pillars improved visibility and beefy, fixed B-pillars added strength in case of roll-overs.  Flush-style door handles diverged from previous models.  Front disc brakes became standard in '73, as did Federally mandated 5 mph bumpers and side-impact guard beams in the doors.  In many ways it was a fully new Chevelle. 

For consignment, a 1975 Chevelle Malibu hardtop with a non original rebuilt 350ci V8 and numbers matching automatic transmission.  This was the mid-level option, sandwiched between the Deluxe and the Laguna.  The ode to SoCal beach towns did not extend to the base model, which they could have called Venice instead Deluxe…but I digress.  This car has many new parts and an engine that's been massaged a bit.  A nice driver with good power in a mid-70's Chevelle that, despite the big production numbers, are not commonly seen today. 

Exterior
Dark metallic red coats the car and color-matched side molding, so common in this era, intersects the body sides.  The Colonnade body style was described as “semi-fastback” and the triangular rear windows are striking in their design.  Chrome bumpers bookend the car and are in very good condition.  The rear taillights sit flush with the rear panel and contain an Easter egg…the Chevy bowtie is etched in the reflective red plastic.  Bright trim around the headlights and a vertical patterned grille are new for '75 and the single side mirror was standard for this trim level.  The added 15-inch American Racing Torque Thrust wheels look right at home on this car and are wrapped in staggered size tires for a raked and racy look.  We noted some areas of rust bubbles and other inclusions in the paint, but overall, it's decent driver quality. 

Interior
Swing open the big doors to find clean black vinyl door panels with window crank, door actuator, and the courtesy ash tray for backseat occupants, (it's where we put our chewed gum as kids).  Familiar “body by Fisher” sill plates are there and conjure up memories of growing up in the age of GM.  The split bench front seat is vinyl and cloth and features a prominent houndstooth pattern…same with the back bench.  The dash is pretty standard GM for the time…a horizontal speedometer that extends nearly end to end and other rectangle gauges and controls.  Oil, water, and volt gauges have been added under the dash.  A/C controls are intact, but the unit no longer exists under the hood…so the myriad of vertical and slotted vents won't be blowing cold air anytime soon.  The black carpet appears to be in good condition and the headliner is high and tight.  Nothing unusual about the trunk which is partially covered with a carpeted trunk mat. 

Drivetrain
A replacement but period-correct 350ci small block is here, rebuilt and bored .40 over according to the consignor and having stainless valves and COMP springs in the cylinder heads that are capable of handling .600 lift.  A big, shiny Edelbrock 4-barrel carburetor sits on top, and we're told it's new along with the starter, fuel pump, water pump, 4-core aluminum radiator, and battery.  We note the fan shroud is missing so be careful under there!  The block is orange with black valve covers and matching “Chevrolet” script on each side.  The numbers matching 3-speed TH350 automatic transmission is stock and spins power to a 10-bolt rear end.  Disc in front and drums in back, both power-assisted, are standard and accounted for. 

Undercarriage
Stainless dual exhaust comes off the stock-style manifolds and ends at two Magnaflow mufflers which terminate with short, down-turned tips before the rear axle.  Surface rust is fairly prominent underside on suspension pieces and the axle but invasive rust was not seen.  Some seepage at the oil pan was observed.  The front shows independent coil spring suspension and 4-link with coil springs in rear.  Our consignor states that new upper control arm bushings were installed along with new ball joints.  

Drive-ability
Grab the plastic steering wheel and it feels like 1975 all over again!  The car roared to life as the Magnaflows amplified the 350 cuber just behind the back seat.  The Edelbrock pumped like a healthy heart sending blood…er…gas…to the chambers with raucous energy unencumbered by smog equipment and an A/C pulley.  The car drove well, retaining the familiar vague steering of the era but putting good power to the wheels and stopping with very little fade.  Visibility was very good in this car and lots of light flows in.  With the fatties out back, the rear view of this car, observed by onlookers, is lean and mean. The malaise era, not known for its muscle cars or imagination, did produce some interesting cars. 

The “new” Chevelle doesn't disappoint with a longer body, Colonnade looks, and a bit of a sleeper profile.  Though four-door and wagon versions were available, many opted for this mid-level Chevelle for everyday use and family taxiing.  All these years later, it's an uncommon classic that would be a great foray into the car hobby.

1C37D5B608683

1-Chevrolet
C-Malibu
37-2 Door Hardtop
D-250ci Inline 6 Cylinder
5-1975
B-Baltimore, MD Assy Plant
608683-Sequential Unit Number

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