If this were to check out, would it be worth the asking price? Seems like a nice car and a little different.

http://sfbay.craigslist.org/nby/cto/1049479368.html

It would not be near the asking price. Especially since it's been modified.

Agree. Any inherent value it may have had being a 402 optioned Malibu is long gone with the engine change. Now it's just another Malibu with a swapped engine. 'Fresh' could be anything from a nice 70 piece with good parts to a mid-late 70's 215hp Impala or truck engine.

Thats getting into SS territory for that price. Pics are pretty bad for what he is asking also.

The way I read it, the original 402 also comes with the car. That's the only reason I bothered posting it. IF all the numbers match and the 402 isn't a boat anchor, I was wondering if the rarity of the Chevelle 400 (most of em cloned to SS from what I read) gives it that kind of value. I'm guessing by the replies, the answer is "no" even WITH the original motor.

The domed hood would have to go to be correct....so new hood and paint
Then at some point crack open the #'s 402 that is part of the deal
Quality and originality of the body and paint paramount.

I'm thinking he is way over at $32k.......
I've not seen one nice to compare pricing....but thinking $20k
Why? Because a Malibu 400 is in fact a stripped car IIRC, no frills
Be sure to check it out anyway, take and post pics.....and be sure to include a shot of the cowl trim tag.

...........Because a Malibu 400 is in fact a stripped car IIRC, no frills..........

I'm pretty sure most are just the opposite of stripped.........They're Malibu's just like 70-72 SS's are Malibu's with different trim. 1971-72 "400's" have a BB where as 71-72 SS's could be purchased with a SB. I wonder if most "400's" don't have AC?

I am crossed up with the vinyl floored Heavy Chevy 71-72

Seems way high. I posted an ad on here I found on Craigslist for a 70 400 Malibu that was real solid but missing the motor for $4000. That leaves $28000 on the table to build a motor and new paint the way you want. Way more reasonable. Just my 2 cents.