I am looking at a 66 chevelle Malibu not an SS. It is going for $4,000. It has some rust behind the passanger rear wheel and bondo on the driver rear quarter panel. Supposed to be stock except for headers and the exhaust split. Also had an aluminum manifold and quadrajet put on it. The glass looks good and the interior will need to be replaced or recovered. I am wondering if this is a reasonalbe price for this car? Also would I need to replace the rear quarter panel because of the bondo? If so how does that work as I see you can purchase them but they mold into the top of the car I guess as I cannot see any seem where they connect yet they look like they are part of the top of the car as well?

Not sure about the $4K as depends on overall condition. Less is always better. If you seriously want it and can do some of the work yourself then try a lower offer and see if you can get it.

The lower qtr rust can be replaced with patch panels rather than taking on the whole qtr panel replacement if that is the only place you can find rust. What about just above the wheel opening, how's the trunk floor, what about the floor pans under the seats. Easy way to check is try to get the car on a lift before you buy it and look hard underneath. Trunk floor you have to check from inside as gas tank is up against the underside. Check the truck corners where it attaches to the inner wheel wells.

Assume it runs and drives OK, you didn'y say. Less rust the more it's worth.

In the end it's a judgement call. If you want an investment to sell later, remember lower is better. If the car has value to you due to past experience or memories, then they are always worth more to get them.

I paid $1500 for mine with no engine or tranny. I planned a complete frame off restoration and knew what I was in for. Reason? I am building this one for my wife, when she graduated from High School her Dad took her down and they ordered a brand new '66 Chevelle Malibu with buckets and console etc. Just short of the SS.

When I finished my '39 Chevy restoration I asked her what she wanted and she didn't take 3 seconds to say a '66 Malibu. So here I am building one for her.

Good Luck on your project.

I don't think many of us ever make money on these cars - mostly just enjoy the hobby one way or the other

So even if you paid a little more or less than it is really worth is not a big deal if you keep the car for 20 years

This sounds like it could cost a few bucks and lots of time - and you won't be selling it for big profit any time soon

Are you gonna keep the car for a while or just trying to make a few quick bucks or what

i just bought a 67 4 door malibu that has rust in both rear 1/4 panels and on both sides of front lower fenders. the interior needs some work, the engine is a new six banger from 79. new transmission. the seller included all the metal to patch up the front fenders and 1/4 panels. i paid $1500.... i later discovered that the trunk floor as well as trunk body mounts and 2 floor braces need replacing. its gonna be a lot of work but i think i got a great deal..... next time youre looking at your 66 check out the floor and body mounts!!! good luck with it.. Rad