However, starting with the 1971 model year, the Chevelle was advertised with net horsepower claims, so the top SS 454 was now rated at just 270 horsepower.
The lineup consisted of two trims called the Chevelle and Malibu and started with a six-cylinder engine that only made 110 horsepower (net horsepower). A 307ci V8 unit was next in line with 130 horsepower, but Chevrolet also offered two 350ci configurations with 165 and 175 horsepower.
The Super Sport remained the icing on the Chevelle cake, and while the SS 454 was the best customers could get, the upgraded version could also be ordered with a 350 or 402 V8 engine.
The Malibu in these photos is one of more than 700,000 Chevelles to roll off the assembly line in 1972, arriving in incredible condition despite its long stint in storage.
The owner explains on Craigslist that this Chevelle has been garaged for about 30 years, but despite the rough decades, it is still in great condition. You won't find any rust on this Chevelle, which is a sign that whoever stored this car maintained proper conditions and low humidity levels. The floors are immaculate, and the owner says they've already installed new brakes and other mandatory repairs that had it running again in no time.
The car runs and drives, although the owner admits that it still needs some work on the brake lines to stop it properly.
While the looks are impressive and kudos to the owner for taking such good care of an otherwise awesome car, the engine under the hood isn't the best you'd expect from a 1972 Chevelle. I mean, yeah, a 454 SS is awesome and collectors will pay top dollar for one, but the other engines in the lineup have done their job, too.
This Malibu comes with a six-cylinder, and while some might shy away from that at this point (and no one can blame them if they're particularly interested in power), a six-cylinder engine is ideal for the occasional drive on a sunny Sunday.
The price is reasonable for a 1972 Chevelle in this shape, and anyone looking for an everyday car can take it home for just $6,500. The car is parked in Longview, and you should still have to worry about transportation if you buy the vehicle, considering the brake work required. Otherwise, the car appears to be road-ready, and a little TLC is all it takes to turn it into a real head-turner.