BLACK-ON-BLACK BEAUTY, BIG BLOCK 396 V8, MUNCIE 4-SPEED, LONGTUBE/DUALS, SLICK!

The Chevrolet Malibu/Chevelle is certainly a contender for the world's most popular muscle car, and for good reason. One look at this 1966 SS tribute hardtop tells you all you need to know about why they're so beloved: great looks, a wide variety of powerplants available under the hood, and plenty of room for long-distance cruising. Add in big block power, a 4-speed, and an awesome color combination, and you've got a car that hits only high notes.So it's not a 138 car, who cares? When you're talking about a design as perfectly proportioned as the early Chevelle hardtop, the look matters more than the pedigree. The sinister Tuxedo Black finish on this one seems to amplify its tidy proportions, stretching it visually over the big wheels and perfect muscle car stance. Restored several years ago, the prep and body work were nicely done, and even those massive rear quarters are arrow-straight and the body is well fitted. Part of the Chevelle's subtlety is that crease that runs from front to rear, and getting that right is critical, so I'll just let the photos speak for themselves in that regard. That gorgeous black finish was clearly wet sanded and buffed when it was finished, giving it a distortion-free surface and while it's not perfect, it does the black paint justice. I also like the stock hood with chrome inserts, beautifully refinished bumpers, and the overall subtlety of the look. No need to shout with a car like this.The mid-1960s were all about simplicity in design, and like the exterior, the black bucket seat interior is a study in careful restraint. Forget faux wood, this Chevy uses bright metal trim to contrast with the black interior, giving the dashboard a jeweled look that's like a fine clock or vintage stereo gear. The upholstery was replaced when the car was restored, and has a very inviting look with no major damage, wear, or other defects. Instead, all you want to do is slide behind the wheel, listening to the comfortable groan of the seat as you settle in, and grab that wonderfully textured steering wheel. The center console is a welcome option, highlighted by a big chrome shifter for the 4-speed and an optional clock in its own trick little housing. An AM/FM/cassette stereo lives in the dash and one glance in the trunk tells you all you need to know about how well-finished this car really is. The car is very, very clean.Performance got a big upgrade as well, thanks to a fresh 396 cubic inch big block under the hood. Aside from a mildly upgraded cam inside and an Edelbrock carb, it's pretty stock, so it starts easily and idles with enough of a lope to let folks know it's no pushover. Bright chrome on the valve covers and air cleaner shines against the Chevy Orange engine enamel and satin black engine bay. Underneath, a fresh clutch and pressure plate feed a Muncie 4-speed manual transmission and a robust 10-bolt rear, and long tube headers exhale through a brand new set of Flowmaster mufflers with turn-downs for just the right sound. The stance is exactly right, not too low but not like mom's grocery-getter, either, and with Corvette Rallys and 225/70/15 Uniroyal radials, it looks fast just sitting still.This is an extremely nice big block A-body with a manual gearbox and nice bodywork, all at a very reasonable price. What else do you need? Call today!