1972 Chevrolet Chevelle Malibu: A Green and Gold Marvel
This gem of a 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle Malibu is no ordinary sport coupe. Imagine it, in its youth dressed in Cream Yellow, and now sporting a bold green with gold stripes costume, topped off with an elegant black vinyl interior. But don’t let the color change fool you; under previous ownership, it became a real beast. In August 2023, the current seller added a 396ci V8, ensuring that this beauty has the guts to back up its striking looks.
The Inner Workings
Step inside, and you’re greeted by more than just a classic look. This Chevelle boasts a three-speed automatic transmission and a Holley 650-cfm four-barrel carburetor, but wait, there’s more. It purrs to life, thanks to exhaust headers and dual electric fans. Imagine cruising down the road with the confidence of front disc brakes and feeling the comfort of front bucket seats. It even comes with modern luxuries like air conditioning and an aftermarket stereo. Intrigued yet? It’s now resting in Canada, waiting, with its service records in tow, for its next adventure.
A Story of Change
Originally, this machine was rolled out in a classic Cream Yellow. But during its journey, it was reborn in green with those bold gold stripes. The journey hasn’t been completely smooth, with rust repairs and a paint chip on the trunk, but isn’t that part of the charm? Hardly different from discovering that an Alpina has more to offer than meets the eye.
Beneath its dashing exterior lies a tale of resilience, with every chip and touch-up narrating a chapter of its storied history.
Riding on Style
Check out those 15″ SS-style wheels, mounted with BFGoodrich Radial T/A tires. Power steering ensures a smooth drive, while the front discs and rear drums manage the braking duties. It glides along, supported by new front shocks and springs fitted in April 2024.
Inside the Beast
Inside, the Chevelle continues to impress. It treats occupants to front bucket and rear bench seats upholstered in sleek black vinyl. Who wouldn’t enjoy the classic feel coupled with a horseshoe-style shifter and a fancy center console? In the fall of 2024, a touch of modern comfort was installed with air conditioning, making every drive a new opportunity for discovery, almost like stumbling upon an Opel Meriva in full bloom.
Dashboard Drama
The dashboard might be classic, but it isn’t showing its age. A 120-mph speedometer, a tachometer, and auxiliary gauges all line up ready to report in on your thrilling rides. The five-digit odometer—showing 15k miles—is an indicator of the love and adventures shared. But remember, the total mileage shrouded in mystery adds an air of the unknown.
Adventure and mystery combine in this time-traveling machine, promising stories of the road both told and untold.
The Heart of Power
The 396ci V8 engine, installed in 2023, is a powerhouse in its own right. Accompanied by a Holley 650-cfm four-barrel carburetor and more, it’s the perfect blend of power and nostalgia. A fresh left valve cover, added in May 2024, ensures it’s always ready for the road.
The Transmission Experience
Power is channeled efficiently through a Turbo Hydra-Matic three-speed automatic transmission and a 10-bolt rear end. It’s enough to make anyone feel a tad giddy at the wheel.
What the VIN Reveals
A dive into the VIN and data plate uncovers some vital information—the Chevelle Malibu’s true identity:
- 1D – Chevrolet Malibu
- 37 – 2-door sport coupe
- H – L65 350ci-2v (165hp)
- 2 – 1972
- R – Arlington, TX
- 603979 – Sequential Serial #
- Style: 72 13637 – 1972 Chevelle Malibu sport coupe
- Body: R 5o191 – Assembled in Arlington, Texas; body number
- Trim: 704 – Black royal cloth, black coated upholstery; front bench seat
- Paint: 56 – Cream Yellow
- Build Date: 06C – Built the third week of June
This Classic Chevelle offers thrilling journeys on Ontario roads, carrying the correct registration and preparing for the next chapter of its legacy.