540ci V8-Powered 1969 Chevrolet Chevelle Malibu Drag Car - Fully Modified

Owned for over 30 years, the Chevelle has been continuously enhanced with top-tier modifications to deliver exceptional performance both on the street and the strip.

Exterior: Redefined with Classic Muscle Aesthetics

Refinished in a striking red with black stripes, the bodywork was completed by Excalibur Auto Body in Willowick, Ohio, in 2005. The car features a cowl induction hood, dual side mirrors, and SS396 badging, exuding classic muscle car styling. It rides on polished Billet Specialties Comp Series wheels, fitted with Hoosier Pro Street front tires and Hoosier Quick Time Pro cheater slicks in the rear. In 2005, the frame was back-halved to accommodate the enhanced rear suspension, which includes ladder bars, coilovers, and a Panhard bar.

Power and Performance: 540ci V8 Beast

Under the hood is a 540ci V8 engine, installed in the mid-2000s, producing immense power. Built with a World Products Merlin block and cylinder heads, it’s equipped with a Merlin aluminum intake manifold, a Holley Dominator carburetor, and a nitrous oxide system for extra speed on the drag strip. The engine was overhauled by Gellner Engineering in 2015, with another refresh in 2019, ensuring peak performance. Additional upgrades include a Moroso oil pan, an aluminum radiator with dual electric cooling fans, and coated Hooker headers connected to a dual exhaust system with an H-pipe.

Transmission and Drivetrain

Power is sent to the rear wheels through a TH400 three-speed automatic transmission, installed in 2022, which is paired with a narrowed 9" rear axle. The rear suspension setup includes ladder bars, and custom wheelie bars were fabricated and installed by Finely Tuned Fabrications in 2020, helping to keep the car stable during launches.

Interior: Race-Ready Setup

Inside, the Chevelle is fitted with Sparco adjustable racing seats, Simpson harnesses, and a full roll cage, all contributing to its track-ready build. The center console features a B&M ratchet-style shifter for precise gear control. A MOMO steering wheel fronts a set of AutoMeter Sport-Comp gauges, including a 160-mph speedometer, tachometer, and gauges for water temperature, fuel level, voltage, and oil pressure. The digital odometer shows just 89 miles since the latest upgrades.

Additional Features

The trunk is equipped with a fuel cell, Optima battery, and aluminum wheel tubs, vital for optimal drag racing performance. Stopping power is provided by four-wheel disc brakes, with Wilwood front calipers to ensure maximum control.

Provenance and Build Details

The Chevelle Malibu was built in Baltimore, Maryland, during the third week of July 1969. Originally finished in Garnet Red (paint code 52) with black vinyl upholstery (trim code 756), it has since been transformed into a modern drag machine while retaining its classic charm.

Up for Auction on Bring a Trailer

This fully modified 1969 Chevrolet Chevelle Malibu drag car is currently listed for auction on Bring a Trailer, offering a rare opportunity to own a truly unique and race-ready vehicle. The car comes with build photos and a clean Arizona title, showcasing its well-documented journey from a classic muscle car to a high-performance dragster.