Performance enthusiasts love giant-killers. Mopar fans love their 340 small-block. Folks that have Ford blue in their veins wax poetic about the Boss 351. And our Pick of the Day is one for Bow Tie fans: a 1967 Chevrolet Malibu convertible powered by the L79 327. It is listed on ClassicCars.com by a private seller in Grand Junction, Colorado. (Click the link to view the listing)
When the Pontiac GTO was introduced for 1964, the all-new Chevrolet Chevelle had nothing to answer for it. Though the Corvette’s L76 327/365 was rumored to have been made available, the Chevelle’s top engine ended up being a 300-horsepower version of the small-block. For 1965, that would change.
Introduced for both the 1965 Corvette and Chevelle, the 350-horse 327 (code L79) was a high-rpm screamer that helped make the Chevelle more competitive with the GTO. Only available with a manual transmission, the 11.0:1 L79 simply clicked due to the hydraulic cam that found a sweet spot between rumpety-rump and ease of use. Nonetheless, considering over 70,000 GTOs were built (versus the 6,000 or so L79 Chevelles, from the Chevelle 300 up to the Malibu SS), it was apparent that it was a big-block world and the L79 wasn’t cutting it despite being a good hustler. Of course, Chevrolet recognized this and produced 201 396 Malibu SSs as a preview of what was to come for 1966.
However, the L79 marched on. For 1966, it was available for the Corvette and Chevy II, but it skipped the Chevelle (possibly due to keeping the focus on the new SS 396), then returned for 1967. The L79 for the Chevelle was now rated at 325 horsepower. This was done as not to encroach on the SS 396’s territory, as its standard engine also was rated at 325 horses. Again, it was a big-block world as only 4,048 Chevelles were built with the L79 engine for 1967. The engine would continue into 1968, with a cast iron manifold being the main difference, and then it was discontinued.
This restored, numbers-matching 1967 Chevrolet Malibu is one of the rare convertibles built with the L79 327. Though standard with a three-speed on the column, this L79 is equipped like most that were built: M20 wide-ratio four-speed, plus a 12-bolt rear with 3.73 gears and Positraction. Other features include heavy-duty clutch, heavy-duty cooling, F40 suspension, power steering and brakes, tachometer, clock, AM/FM radio, Deluxe seat belts, power top, bumper guards, and side-view mirrors. The seller has added a Gardner dual exhaust system for prime breathing.
The seller states, “All the original paperwork has been lost for this Malibu,” which means the L79 pedigree is difficult to verify. However, it is registered in the National L79 Registry, which won’t accept just any ol’ submission. “Also, I have included many photos showing all the power train numbers and dates to verify all numbers match. If you are familiar with the L79 option you will see in the photos how correct this Malibu is.” Attractive in Tahoe Turquoise with Medium Turquoise split bench seat, this desirable Bow Tie will allow you to play the underdog for $79,500.
Click here for this ClassicCars.com Pick of the Day.
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