How long is a 1978 Chevy Malibu?
The Malibu’s overall length in 1978 varies by body style: sedans and coupes were typically about 203–205 inches long, while the station wagon stretched to roughly 214–215 inches — about 17 to 18 feet in total depending on configuration.
Length by body style
Below is a concise breakdown of common 1978 Malibu configurations, showing how length changes with body style.
- Two-door Malibu coupe: about 203–205 inches overall (roughly 16 ft 11 in to 17 ft 1 in).
- Four-door Malibu sedan: about 203–205 inches overall (roughly 16 ft 11 in to 17 ft 1 in).
- Malibu station wagon: about 214–215 inches overall (roughly 17 ft 10 in to 17 ft 11 in).
The differences are mainly due to the wagon’s extended cargo area and slightly longer bumper treatments. Most mid-size GM cars from this era fall within this range, with minor variations by trim and engine choice.
Practical considerations for owners and restorers
When shopping for a 1978 Malibu, or when restoring one, exact length can be important for garage fit, parking space, and historical accuracy. The most reliable way to confirm a specific car's length is to check the factory build sheet, owner's manual, or the original brochure for that VIN.
Summary
Overall, the 1978 Chevy Malibu measures roughly 203–205 inches in length for sedans and coupes, and about 214–215 inches for wagons, which translates to around 17 to 18 feet depending on the body style. For precise measurements, reference the vehicle's official documentation or VIN-specific specs.
