Featured here is a beautiful 1964 Chevy Malibu SS Convertible, at that time a top trim of the Chevrolet Chevelle. The 1964 Chevrolet Chevelle model was offered in several trim levels. These includeed the Chevelle 300, Chevelle Malibu, and Chevelle Malibu Super Sport. The 1964 Chevelle was built on Chevrolet’s newly designed A-body platform.
The Chevy Malibu was produced from 1964 to 1983. General Motors stopped producing the Malibu from1983 through 1997. From 1998 and continuing to this very day, the Chevrolet Malibu remains a popular automobile.
First a Trim Level on the Chevelle
The Malibu began as a trim-level of the Chevrolet Chevelle, becoming its own model line in 1978. The Malibu SS trim was the highest trim level for the 1964 Chevy Chevelle. The Chevy Chevelle was to compete directly against the Ford Fairlane. The higher powered Chevelle V-8’s competed mainly against the Pontiac GTO and Ford Torino. The Malibu was so successful that it replaced the Chevelle in 1978.
The Chevy Malibu Was Popular From The Start
The Malibu ranked number one in Chevelle sales offering a combination of a sporty design and a high level of standard equipment. Those buyers really wanting a real sporty Chevelle could opt for the Malibu Super Sport.
The 1964 Chevelle Malibu SS was a separate series from the Chevelle 300 & Malibu series. Also, buyers in 1964 were given the choice of either a six-cylinder or V8 engine that could put out up to 300 HP. Buyers could also order a six or eight cylinder engine in any of the models including the Malibu SS. The Chevrolet Malibu quickly became one of Chevy’s most popular nameplates.
The new model was popular right off the bat, with a total of 200,000 sales in the first year. The model had high end tailored fabrics with metallic thread accents. Adding to the Malibu’s popularity were the many available options which included the sport coupe, convertible, 4-door sedan, and 2-seat wagon. The car appealed to families, businessmen and muscle car enthusiasts, quite a large market. The most powerful 1964 Chevelle Malibu came with a 300 HP 327 cubic inch V8,
Following significant redesigns for both the second and third generations, Chevrolet’s Chevelle name was officially replaced by the Malibu for the fourth generation.
1964 Chevy Malibu SS Specifications
Engines for the 1964 Malibu included a 194 cubic inch inline six delivering 120 HP. Also a 230 cubic inch V-8 delivering 155 HP. A 283 cubic inch V-8 with 195 HP and a 283 with 220 HP.
Available transmissions included both a three and four speed manual and a Powerglide two speed automatic.
1964 Chevy Malibu dimensions included a 115.0 inch wheelbase, 193.9 inch overall outside length, 74.6 inch width, 54.5 inch height. Curb weight was 3,000 lbs.
Related Auto Museum Online articles are found on the links below…
Two excellent source books on the subject of cars from the 1960’s include…American Muscle Cars by authors William G. Holder and Phillip Kunz….American Cars of the 1960’s: A decade of Diversity by author John Gunnell.
The Chevy Chevelle Malibu Collector Automobile
The first Malibu was a top-line subseries of the mid-sized Chevrolet Chevelle. The Malibu trim level was offered on the 1964 Chevelle, and remained a popular option level throughout the Chevelle’s history. The Chevrolet Chevelle Malibu enjoyed a very successful introduction in 1964 and the classic Malibu remains a top collector vehicle.
The Chevy Chevelle Malibu, especially those from the first and second generation not only was designed with nice styling, but buyers had a large choice of engines and transmissions.
Current asking prices for the 1964 Chevy Chevelle Malibu SS in excellent condition range from about $25,000 to $50,000 plus. Of course, there are some exceptions high and low depending on originality and degree and age of restoration. Many of the higher priced 64 Malibu’s are the two door convertibles.
(Articles and photos copyright Auto Museum Online)