1972 Chevrolet Chevelle Malibu Sport Coupe with a 454 swap, no reserve

Why we picked it

This light yellow Malibu with a white vinyl top started as a six-cylinder car and is reportedly fitted with a 454 big-block, Edelbrock intake, tubular headers and a three-speed automatic. It also has an aluminum radiator with dual electric fans, a serpentine drive, a high-output alternator, Summit gauges and Cragar wheels on 2023 BFGoodrich tires. The seller says it has a clean Michigan title.

This is an auction with bidding still early, and bids usually climb a lot in the final days, so the current bid is not a likely final price. It is offered without reserve, and since it is not a numbers car, it makes sense as a driver or as the start of a restomod.

The value check

The current bid is $21,000. Comparable cars in the same condition have sold for $23,100–$40,000, so the middle of the market is about $31,550. That put this car 33% under. Bids usually climb in the final hours, so the discount will likely shrink.

Modified 1972 Malibu coupes sold for $23,100 to $40,000 at Mecum and BaT from May to Aug 2026, including a $38,500 Mecum car that also started life as a six-cylinder.

Where the numbers come from:

• Mecum 1972 Malibu $23,100 (Jun 2026)
• BaT 1972 Malibu $32,000 (Jun 2026)
• Mecum 1972 Malibu $38,500 (Aug 2026)

What to check

• The 454 swap is described as 'reportedly'; confirm what engine is in it and how it was done
• Ex-six-cylinder car: check the motor mounts, springs, brakes and rear axle are suited to a big-block
• Check the rear window channel, trunk floor, lower quarters and frame rails behind the rear wheels for rust
• Seat upholstery is torn with exposed padding
• Listing gives no rust or condition write-up; ask for underside photos

Making it drive like new

Add front disc brakes if it does not have them, big-block springs, modern shocks, and a stronger rear (12-bolt or Ford 9-inch) to take the 454's torque. A tubular control arm kit, sway bars and an overdrive automatic would make it a strong, usable pro-touring Chevelle.

6 builders make a complete chassis for the 1968–72 Chevelle, GTO & GM A-body. Compare them side by side, along with what it takes to stiffen the factory frame.