1977 Chevrolet Malibu Classic from North America - Comments

This 2-door model was produced with a full vinyl top. Shoddy workmanship or cost-cutting measures produced a flaw that is common to most of the GM cars of the era. Water seeps under the vinyl and is trapped, especially between the rear window and the trunk. Rust forms, allowing water to collect in the trunk. More rust forms. I have drilled holes in the rear fender wells in the trunk, allowing water to drain out. Body work was estimated at $4,000 from an expert body shop. For the cost of materials, I am getting the body work (including all new sheet metal welded in place) done by the Nashville Auto Diesel College. I will post a comment when I get it back completed.

The car is an absolute "CLASSIC" in every sense of the word. It has been castrated compared to it's predecessors, but that is easily remedied with lot's of cash. The One-Year-Only body style is unmatched (except maybe by Monte Carlos) as far as style and flair. Owing very little (fast-back rear window) to Chevelles of the early seventies, it maintains the aggressive stance and intimidation (when seen through a rear-view mirror) of "Muscle Cars" of the late sixties and very early seventies. The 305 gives good off-the-line acceleration, but the top-end leaves a lot to be desired. The 350 TH AT is smooth as velvet. Given half a chance, I would replace the front bench seat with swiveling buckets. Other than that I will probably own this car for life, I am that pleased!

I have a 77 2 door landau coupe, which has the white vinyl top over half the roof, and has the water leaking problem as well. It has been temporarily fixed with a few drain holes, but needs attention soon. other than that it's in excellent shape for the year. I bought it in 1999 while looking at a (scary) 75 monte carlo. The Malibu was on the lot, and I put a deposit on it on the spot. it had 63000 original miles (one owner) no accidents, and still had the 8 track in it... all original, and is red on red (plus the white vinyl top) a great find. I have updated the stereo (kept the working original set-up), replaced the master cylinder, and rear brake lines, as well, the water pump, power steering pump, fuel pump, valve covers, and had it converted to dual exhaust. Mine has the 350 auto, and is a great ride. I need to reseal all the windows as they have started to leak, and need to repair rust on the front fenders, and bottoms of both doors, and under the vinyl top, and freshen up with some new red paint. To most people, these things would seem to be not worth the effort for a car this old, but after driving the car for the last 6 years as a daily ride, it has been the most reliable car I've owned. I sold a 96 VW golf when I found it, it's my baby, and I will never sell it. All it's missing is the bucket seats, and rally rims, and I'm in heaven.