Bone Stock 64 Malibu Conv

[shadowgray396]

Welcome to the site. I would say not many original 64 Chevelle Malibu Convertible out there. If it's a matching number car your value is in that. Nothing wrong with wanting to change the motor or trans, but keep all the original parts you change and don't make any mods to the car that can't be changed back if you every decide to sell it. A 350 would drop right in and give you plenty of power and like said an overdrive transmission.

Love to see some pic's and Merry Chrristmas to everyone.

[carpoor]

Those 283's can be a real gas sipper with the correct set up. I would put a TH350 in the car, direct bolt in. Then swap in an RV-type cam for more low end, a 4bbl intake, reworked Quadrajet, a set of Tri-Y headers, and a nice dual exhaust system (2.25") with an X crossover. Simple, low buck, and around 19-21 MPG easy.

If that won't cut it, look for a newer truck (99'-07') 4.8L V8 and overdrive automatic. I knock down 20 MPG mixed driving in my daily driver 2000 GMC Sierra. My truck is about 1000lbs heavier than your Malibu and less aerodynamic. I'm sure a 4.8 in a lighter vehicle could easily yield 25+ MPG, and it runs on regular gas. The 4.8's are rated 255-270 HP in stock trim, they make decent power for a "truck motor."