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Is a 1979 Malibu a Chevelle?

Yes, a 1979 Malibu is considered a Chevelle. The Malibu was a model of the Chevrolet Chevelle, a mid-size car produced by Chevrolet from 1964 to 1978. In 1978, the Chevelle nameplate was discontinued, and the Malibu became its own distinct model, though it was still based on the Chevelle platform.


The Chevrolet Chevelle and Malibu


The Chevrolet Chevelle was a mid-size car produced by Chevrolet from 1964 to 1978. It was available in a variety of body styles, including a two-door coupe, four-door sedan, and station wagon. The Malibu was a trim level of the Chevelle, offering a more upscale and luxurious version of the car.


In 1978, the Chevelle nameplate was discontinued, and the Malibu became its own distinct model, though it was still based on the Chevelle platform. The 1979 Malibu was the first model year of the Malibu as a standalone model, but it retained many of the same design and engineering elements as the previous Chevelle Malibu.


Key Differences Between the Chevelle and Malibu


The main differences between the Chevelle and Malibu were in the level of trim and features. The Malibu was the more upscale and luxurious version of the Chevelle, with more standard features, better interior materials, and a more refined driving experience.



  • The Malibu had a more premium interior with higher-quality materials and more standard features, such as power windows, power locks, and a more advanced sound system.

  • The Malibu's suspension and steering were tuned for a smoother, more comfortable ride, while the Chevelle was more focused on performance.

  • The Malibu was available with a wider range of engine options, including more powerful V8 engines, while the Chevelle was more focused on the base models.


Despite these differences, the Malibu and Chevelle were closely related, sharing the same underlying platform and many of the same mechanical components. This is why a 1979 Malibu is still considered a Chevelle, even though the Chevelle nameplate was no longer used.

What body is a 1979 Malibu?


The 1979 Malibu was a mid-size vehicle available as both the Malibu and Malibu Classic. The Malibu body styles included a Sport Coupe, Sedan, and Station Wagon while the Malibu Classic body styles included all the body styles on the Malibu in addition to a Landau Coupe.



Is the 69 Chevelle a Malibu?


Always A Head Turner, The Popular 1969 Chevelle Malibu Has Consistently Attracted Muscle Car Fans Through The Decades.



What does LS stand for on a Malibu?


Luxury Sport
In the beginning, LS stood for “Luxury Sport,” but now it's often the name of the base Chevy trim level, which also means it's the most affordable. LT stands for “Luxury Touring,” and it's usually the next step up from the base level.



What kind of wheel drive is a Chevy Malibu?


Front Wheel Drive
New 2025 Chevrolet Malibu 2LT Front Wheel Drive Sedan.



Is a Malibu the same as a Chevelle?


The Malibu was the top-of-the-line model through 1972, and completely replaced the Chevelle nameplate starting with the redesigned, and downsized 1978 model year.



What year did they make Chevelle Malibu?


First generation (Chevelle Malibu, 1964)
The first Malibu was a top-line subseries of the mid-sized Chevrolet Chevelle from 1964 to 1972. Malibus were generally available in a full range of bodystyles including a four-door sedan, two-door Sport Coupe hardtop, convertible and two-seat station wagon.



What is a-body Chevelle?


The A-body designation was resurrected in 1964 for a new series of intermediate-sized cars including the Chevrolet Chevelle, Pontiac Tempest, Oldsmobile Cutlass, and Buick Skylark. These later A-bodies underwent a switch in drive layout from rear-wheel drive to front-wheel drive in 1982.



What vehicle class is a Malibu?


More than meets the eye. The 2025 Malibu remains a symbol of refinement in the midsize sedan category.



What is a Chevy Malibu classified as?


midsize sedan
The Chevy Malibu is classified as a midsize sedan, providing ample seating for five people and offering a comfortable driving experience for those looking for a practical vehicle.



Is a Chevy Classic the same as a Chevy Malibu?


Notably, the latter two Chevrolet Classics are the past generation versions of the Malibu that are continued to be produced for fleet sales, as the current generations are sold though retail. This set index article includes a list of related items that share the same name (or similar names).


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.