cars aren't about necessity, they're about what's freaking fun. so if the adrenaline from scaring the piss out of you that comes with high horsepower, go for it. If what's fun for you is carving down a mountain with 100 hp, go for it.
Oh mike, you named those mods like they were chump change! That car obviously has had a lot of money put in it. Please give me a break. To 99% of us that car is a 10!.
Drive BigMuscle ***** You guys are ridiculous. Most projects aren't built with LS9's, 6 piston Brembo's, independent suspension, forged wheels etc. Those represent a tiny percentage. In every build the budget is the limiting factor (and they're a lot smaller than the one on this Malibu). I see mostly builds like ls1, lq9, 5.3's, built 302s 351w's, bunch of Willwood brakes, stock interiors, carbs etc. Praising someone for not using top of the line stuff is just plain stupid. That's like praising me for buying the house I bought. Its definitely not the one I'd pick if I were rich.
Jay C I never heard in the video them say the parts where cheap, just that they are middle of the road, And they(he) didn't say most builds are built with the parts you listed.. Most of what is in that car is over my budget, but my budget isn't the car owners budget..
I have to agree with Mike on every point made in this video. A balanced car is way better than trying to go all-out and put as much power down onto the road as possible.
When you think about the second "Golden Age" of muscle cars, I find it kind of amusing that people find it necessary to justify a "mere" 500HP engine. When the Dodge Viper came out in the early 90's, it had 400HP. Before F1 cars started using turbos in the 80's, they were running 500HP for decades (and yes; I know they weigh less). The new SRT Hellcats are a factory produced 707HP, 10 second car. To put that in perspective, the Porsche 911 GT1 from 1996 was a 700HP super-car. It was designed specifically to race at 24 Hours of LeMans, and was competitive with McLaren, actually winning in 1998. I'm not saying horsepower should be limited at all. I'm merely suggesting if you break the 600HP mark, just do everyone a favor; take it to the track (and maybe take some lessons) before you kill a minivan full of kids on their way to a little league game. Just sayin'... ;o)
Hahaha dude you don't even need to give a car 600hp for people to drive like idiots. Plenty of kids out there with off the lot Camaros and Mustangs their daddies bought for them, who have no idea how to drive them or control them when they're being stupid. You could go down a youtube rabbit hole and watch videos like "how not to leave a car show" of people totaling their cars. Although, if you have 600hp and can actually put it to use in Southern California, god bless ya! Ya don't need that much power to inch down the 405 at 15mph haha.
True story Bro, A 19 year old kid goes to the Chrysler dealer and picks up a "red eye" and has noooo clue how to drive it...its strictly for "look at me factor" and most of them dont even realize they are in a death machine in the wrong hands
In 1975 I bought a ten year old Malibu SS, all original, except it had been repainted a dark copper color, for $800. 283, 4BBL, 4 speed. Such a fun little ride. A damn shame things like marriage, kids and a "career" take away a mans' toys.
I did the opposite, I waited until I was settled in with the kid, divorced from the wife- THEN bought my 66 malibu! Couldn't be happier. My boy loves riding in his daddy's car
That car is not a 7, it is a 10. I love everything about it. Those mid 60s cars from the big three are not flashy, but they are really beautiful when you go and look closely at them. Everything they should be, nothing that they shouldn't.
Kalsonic have the ground clearance to go offroad, never get used for it. have street tires but the center of gravity makes them incredibly unsporty they are so damn useless.
chilliwhiggerE r u psychic? LOL...yeah, not the srt unfortunately, but my neighbor had the R/T (auto), with 370hp/400lb-ft. It pulls decent enough, but that's about all I liked about driving it. I'm more of a classic lightweight canyon-carver guy, so the tranny and overall feel was pretty horrid to me - though the Chally's do look badass I have to admit! I'd want one just to look at it... and tune the exhaust hehe :)
Because they're basically limiting the definition of high-end to ludicrously powerful deathtraps. I would say this is around the border of medium and high.
I married a 7. Sometimes even a 7 is too much. She ran too hot, overheated too easily, and there was a constant whine I could never resolve. One day, she just quit on me. Decided a real dog of a car is better because ya don't have to worry about screwing it all up. Slide off the road? No biggie. Loose linkage? Hey, ya knew that going in. Leaky pan? Yeah... better see about getting that fixed, but still... kinda nice. Run it hard. No worries.
This guy is right on, I have a chopped 1968 Chevy C 10 with a cammed 5.3 LS, 7004r, a few suspension tricks and a front disk conversion and I love to drive it and it drives well. It was a factory air cab and I have big and littles on it with mini tubs, lowered with just a slight rake. Just the thumbs up and smiles are enough but with long tube headers, FlowMasters and '72 Chevy Torch Red paint it's a little hard to sneak around. I think people forgot what a vehicle sounds like with no cats, I like to remind them ............
There is _so_ much basic common sense in this video. I love it. Except Budweiser. That'll never be 'perfectly fine' so long as I have tastebuds. Other than that, wholesome goodness all round.
I'm a BIG 60's Ford fan, and I would own this car in a second. Not quite as sexy as Fords lines, but REALLY nice...And the guy is 100% correct, this is the ultimate package for people who want it all. Remember, drag cars are specifically built, so are track cars, and spongy production. As a younger man, you spent ALL your $$ on trying to get something this great. I love this car. [not to mention the brain stiffening interior!!!]
well that's more your opinion that Ford lines are better looking... it's pretty much a known fact that GM (Chevrolet, olds, Pontiac, Buick, Cadillac) was the leader in styling through the 50s and 60s
NOW THATS an outstanding video!!!! Not only is it my first ever dream car and still in my top 3 to this day but built way better then I could have dreamed for a perfect machine. Kudos to the builder and to the excellent production of this video
great video mike, you hit the nail on the head in this article, you highlight on all the things that make a car awesome, i like the whole spectrum but you are right about the balance of the middle. making everything just right, really makes the car an all around performer, no compromise. thanks for showing it off!
Now THIS is a pro touring car! I've seen so many people butchering the term lately and this sums it up perfectly. I see way too many people throwing rims on a stock car and dropping it a few inches and calling it pro touring. On the other hand I see people with fully stripped cars, roll cage, racing seat/harness, no AC, no radio, nothing, and they call it Pro Touring. NO! A Pro Touring car is a classic car with all the ease, comfort, and performance of a modern performance car, and this is it exactly. Its not overdone where it's obviously a track car but out of pure popularity and bandwagoning they call it Pro Touring. Yet it's not underdone where it's just lowered with rims to look the part and somehow that qualifies. This ones perfect. Its clean, comfortable, easy, has modern reliability, modern ease of handling, modern power, it's just as good at killing an autocross as it is road tripping and THAT is Pro Touring
I've never really looked at a Malibu lustfully before, but I gotta say, this one just has it goin' on. But I wouldn't say it's Chevrolet's M3 so much as it is its 2002tii. This is an awesome build, not too much, not too little. Great job. And great video.
What a well thought out street machine! Balanced, neutral handling and it's not a turbo'd small block that all it does is immolate the rear tires! Smart build on Gil's part.
Great video Mike, as well as a great message. I feel that gearheads nowadays on getting lost on the fact you CAN have too much horsepower. Thanks to events like TX2k, and all the other events showcasing supercars putting out 2000+ HP, Street Outlaws, etc, younger guys are trying to shoot for the moon with their builds and can never be truly happy with what they have. People need to realize there will always be someone faster, that you need to build a car that works and suits you, not the internet.
When I was 16 , went with my grandfather to buy one of these. Had 327 , 325 hp. We drove it my grandpa said no way. Too much power for you right now. I’m 67 now and still want one .
This is one of the reasons why Koenigsegg is my favorite supercar manufactor. Maybe not the absolute fastest car out there, but they seem so functional despite the massive engine power
my very first car was a 1965 Chevy Malibu SS.i paid $675.00 for it and i was the third owner. this was in 1977.it had the 283/Power glide trans. factory a.c. ps. pb and like a idiot i sold it.where i live you never see a 65 Malibu SS or otherwise for sale. they start at 66 and newer. had a lot of good times in that car.
Gil Alfonso, My hat is off to you sir. Being 65 myself I remember the '65 Chevelle as one good looking automobile. what you did with yours is truly amazing. I'm so jealous!
So I'm trying to learn more about cars, because I've always been really interested since I was young but never found a good way to learn. I can watch videos like this but I don't really get much out of it, given all of the terms that I don't know. Does anyone have any advice as to how I can learn more? Maybe how you guys learned yourselves? Any help would be appreciated, because in a few years I'll be able to own my own car and I'd love to have a good knowledge by then so I can get one I like and start working on it.
***** I don't have the opportunity to work on a car right now. I also don't wanna mess with a car if I don't know at all what I'm doing, especially if it's partially my parents' car, because I know they wouldn't let me. So I guess reading is what I'll be doing.
***** There's a lot to know I guess. I don't know a lot of the technical aspects (I know that's very broad, but I don't have a specific focus. I need a general knowledge first), so that would be where I wanna learn.
Ryjongle Besides this year I have never wrenched on my own car and know a lot about a wide range of vehicles. If possible go to some local car meets with a friend and look around. Most car people would be happy to explain what you are looking at. The more videos you watch and the more meets you attend the faster you will get an idea of the trends in the type of engines used by the aftermarket and also the significance of why certain companies build cars on their platform the way they do. If you don't know where to start use Google and find a company that interests you. From there search online for a forum where owners group together to go in extreme detail about specific cars and where they normally go for car meets.
So tired of people getting into cars they don't own and lecturing to others about what is right and what is wrong in a car. Build a car the way you want to and put as many horses under the hood as you want. And I didn't need a video to tell anyone that.
Musto does have a point in regards to not overbuilding your first car to the point where you can't get comfortable with it. Makes sense to start a bit more mild and work your way up over time.
LT1HILLINGHOE then it’s really curious to know why you watch the video? Be some pretty boring content if he only reviewed his own car over and over and would really suck for car guys that want to see other people’s cars. It cracks me up that people like you seem to get so butt hurt because of innocent videos like this.
Yeah, these people all "build" cars with parts that are already manufactured like they invented the thing because they just chose the brand of each part 😂 you don't really KNOW anything, just put it together, drive it, and stop making yourselves seem like gods.
Excellent points about how to build a car to enjoy. My Stingray is done somewhat similar. No 'bling', just the correct parts for the application. It measures out at 530 HP@ 6,200 rpm and 545 ft/lbs of torque@4,100 rpm. The VE% between 3800 and 4400 however is 130%!! The combination of parts for the engine worked out superb, and it's very reliable. I chose to install one of AutoGears M23 Muncie Z ratio 4 speed transmission, which works very well with the stock 3.36 rear gears. It has a few suspension mods, mainly just springs/shocks and a few other things in there that Guldstrand had in his catalog. A very balanced approach to my build. Overall I am very pleased with the outcome, and it's a blast to drive with the T-top off too. Great video, thanks.
I have a 68 Camaro RS/SS. It drives like a 7. Has good power with a 350/351 Ramjet, 700-R-4 Streetbeater with power going to a Currie 9" with 3:55 gears. So it very street-able, with power, and very cruise-able on the Power Tour in 2018. Some Shows are 250+ miles away, so it's just a nice drive both ways. A lot of looks, and a lot of fun. Thanks for the video.
anyone can build their own car, but did they actually forge the steel crank or cast the iron? did they buy the engine standard or did they bore the cylinders and grind the crank. sure they can install flat top pistons and roller rockers but did he choose which mine the iron ore came from.
not everyone can build their own vehicle are you kidding me. I am an automotive apprentice, I work at a shop with an engine builder with 40+ years experience, and even he collaborates with other individuals to confirm part, ignition timing, cam grind, lobe seperation, gear ratio. very very few people actually have the ability and skill to build a vehicle from the ground up by themselves.
When you look at a really beautiful person and try to define beauty it becomes really hard, because what defines it is not this or that, its the absence of faults and the symmetry of the form. It's more about what it isn't than what it is. This car is the automotive equivalent, and the owner has made himself one of the nicest cars in the world. And I'm not even into muscle cars or even black cars in general, but that thing is really exquisite. Kudos.
I think I fell in love with old American cars... They sound so beautiful and look amazing. Here in the EU we have downsized and mostly diesel cars. Sound like a shit, smell even worse. Once I grow up, I must buy some old muscle car. EU bureaucratic pussies would probably shit their pants because of CO2 emissions...
+Free Thinker Stay in school because you'll need deep pockets, even for a 7. Most older muscle cars are rusty, rattly, sloppy steering, unreliable. It took him several thousand dollars and several thousand hours to get that car where you see it.
@ as Rambo this was filmed in the beautiful Livermore Ca. The road that leads to Del Valle Lake. Great video of a great car in a great place by a great guy. Thanks for another awesome video. James
highlands Really? I care enough to write back? That's where this discussion is going?
9 ปีที่แล้ว +1
grabir01 That makes no sense at all. And you call me stupid because I have no religion? That's not very christian of you is it? Sounds more like a muslim that looks down on infidels. Oh wait...Islam and christianity are almost the same. I forgot. Get of your pedestal and be human. Not some creation of someone in a book.
***** Chevy rally wheels are about at the top of the list of best looking factory wheel on an old muscle car. Today's designs make the accessories the art of the car; wheels, tires, lights, etc. Older designs, the car itself is the art!
Definitely can't go wrong with some torque thrust type of wheels. But at the end of the day can't get mad at some for stepping outside the box and doing something different. Everyone can't ride around on stock replicas or steelies especially with 17in rotors...
You guys have it perfect! I would love to build a retry similar car with some difference that appeal to me. Maybe if the va ever helps get fixed again I'll send you a pic. Thanks for a great video! Joe
i really like watching your videos! You have a great attitude towards the work of the car owners. You admire what they do and show love for our all hobby- nice cars! :) although i am basically a fan of high tech perfection cars like a Porsche for example, i love your american cars and backyard built cars aswell! They are great pieces of art. They really transmit your way of life and everytime i see an american car i get a smile on my face and start daydreaming a bit. And to be honest, i am actually sick of the people (in general) hating against european cars, japanese cars, us cars or where ever they are from.. All engineers and mechanics did great work and try to make the best out of their given sources.. :) thanks for your loving behaiviour in the videos!! greetings from germany
hahaha good luck with that... They aren't called Mali-poo now cause they're awesome. They've already tarnished the name of Malibu and Impala with their disgusting and unimpressive reboots... and if they tried to reboot the Malibu again and make it look like a 65, I have a feeling it'd take about 10 years to develop, the concepts would all have crazy V8s and tons of HP, and the production model would have pussified v6, and be about as good as the Total Recall reboot.
Typhoon0627 well the 2018 Malibu Premiere edition has a “pussified” turbo 4 banger that does 0-60 in 5.7 that I wouldn’t mind trading in my 2010 Malibu LTZ with its “pussiefied” V6 that does it in 6.3. Of course neither of them compare to my 14 Camaro 1LE, but I still like them for the “pussified” cars they are. They are more practical than my Camaro and have good passing power. Especially when compared to a lot of other sedans.
You know the PT Cruiser GT had a turbo, 230 HP stock. I'm borrowing a PT Cruiser right now, I know what its like. Its got about 190k on it, and the struts have never been changed on it. It drives like a bobble head around corners.
My brother had a PT-GT with a few "basic" mods done; (Tune, ported/polished head, cam, upgraded turbo, ect...) ...that was pushing a little under 420ish horsepower to the front wheels...it's basically a Neon SRT-4 that caught a cold, and got in a fight with something nasty...Nah, For about one...maybe two-ish thousand...you could make them into pretty mean car,suv,whatevers...We call them; Sleepers... And, we also call the manufacturers lazy, for making us do the necessary upgrades to make their performance models shine...
Beautiful car, I remember the commercials on TV back in the 60s about the Chevy Malibu SS. The commercials made me want one, but alas I was 11 years old so I bought the model and painted/glued it together instead. I also loved the Impala, Camaro, GTX, GTO, and other beautiful AMERICAN MADE cars from the 50s, 60s & 70s that I would read about (buy the models) in Hot Rod & Car Craft magazines. I wound up ordering and owning a 1977 Black with Black Velour Interior Trans Am 6.6 SE, I ordered it in Sept.1976, before "the movie" but did not get to pick it up from the dealership in Florida till April 1977, due to USAF duty requirements which sent me to Germany for a few months.
I really enjoyed this video. It encapsulates what I've thought about so called 'Muscle Cars'. Here is a sensible custom with updates to make it superior to original yet retaining the classic look. Lots of the show cars have virtually full race engines ,wild styling..but never see the road .Seems pointless. I would love such a beautiful car and enjoy driving it.
I've put 40K miles on my 2012 850 HP Shelby Super Snake (Mustang) without an issue. It is no more difficult to drive than any of the 300-600 HP cars I've owned. Common Sense dictates driveability in cars with high horsepower.
Great Informative Video.Would Like the Same Set -Up in a 66 SS Chevelle.Trouble With the Old Muscles of 60' s & Earlly 70s,W as Most Suspensions Couldn' t Hold the Power to the Road on Curves That's Why U See So Few of The HEMI Cudas, 440 CHALLENGERS & Other Big Muscles Left .Lots Of Them Were Totaled, & Other Big Blocks ,Also.
See Jeff Smith of Petersen Publishing's car from the 1990s. As a former '65 Chevelle owner this is nice to see. I spent 15 years with my car; engine swaps, suspension upgrades, bracket racing, SCCA, etc. !!
I love the message of this video. It's exactly the approach I'm taking to build my '69 Mustang. I don't want it to be some crazy thing with 7000 horsepower, I just need a nice, reliable and relatively fun car to cruise around in. Medium for the win indeed!
Kaleido reminds me of a cousin that built his fast back mustang to I think 700-800hp and he couldn't drive it in the rain or even around a track it barely got driven and he sold it later.. you definitely won't regret having reliable power you can actually use on the street :)
Man that vehicle sounds amazing, it sounds sooo...correct and proper too, almost like a stock supercar or something. *Hell this sounds better than most supercars IMO.*
Agreed. My 1968 Road Runner had a 426 Hemi making 500bhp and that was more than enough. My current "toy" is a 1980 Turbo Trans am with the original rebuilt 4.9L and modern intercooled turbo making 345bhp and that is plenty.
I speak from experience. He is 100% correct. That car is just right a fine balance. I had a 66 Chevelle SS 396 475hp 4 spd Borg Warner T10 12 bolt posi 4.11 and a single track 4.06. Rear could be changed in 2 hours or less and I had the perfect trip car and one to mud hole stomp most others. This was the late 80's so I was king of the street in my area. I stomped so many fox bodies it got tiresome, even with the 406s. Near the end I also got a 3.73 posi rear, I feel 3.55 would of been the sweet spot for all around driving. It was one of my most memorable cars that I owned as the paint was A1 with a clean rust free chassis. Was it the best, well at the time it was close enough and still would be. It would of been perfect with better brakes and steering. Now I'm more of a pro tourer type, I want quick but handles and stops well. If I was to do it again it would be a Ford maybe a Fairlane or Falcon. A newer car it would be a Mustang, no question. It just amazes me seeing the times a newer vehicle, slightly modded can lay down at the track. That same car will also daily no problem. The hardest thing on the street is hooking up
Mr. Musto i love your videos. I could trust you to buy a car for me, and know I would love your selection. Onward Sir, I'll be watching, and enjoying the education.
I would love to build something similar one day. My barber has a Malibu but I'd like to do a similar build like this(more "pro-touring" I guess you could say). I have a lot to learn, though, as I didn't grow up wrenching on older cars.
Love this ride! Great commentary...thank you... I have a 65 Malibu SS convertible with 327 and a powerglide(not as fun).. Beefed Up around 340 hp. Triple black...I'll trade?
My Boss 347 Cougar is likely right in the middle, it makes 550 HP and I spent the last 4 years working out the bugs of a complete rebuild and modify project. My car weighs 3200 with the original V6 but now is about 100 pounds more. I will spend the next 4 years making sure I have the right amount of front and rear bar, weight jacking, camber angle, CG location, and checking that corner weights are where I want them to be for what I need. I will never pound my car like I did when I was auto-crossing it years ago but will find the place where its turning and handling is predictable and safe at any speed I decide to drive it at. Driving and therefore building is all about balance. I agree, most miss it.
Mike is right. I have a 1968 GTO with a 400 that puts out 360 hp. it has mostly stock brakes and suspension. I love it just like it is. No wait, I'd like to change the steering box to something a bit tighter.
EXACTLY... My dad and I picked up and drove across the country and then restored a 72 Monte Carlo to "as stock" as possible condition... Except adding a ZZ4 crate motor, (350ish hp).. 700r4 trans, big dual exhaust, and 3.55 LSD.. Replaced all of the brake components and suspension gear, master cylinder, lines, bushings shocks, etc with new.. Factory parts.. reliability. It's a " good"car.. it'll turn your head to look at and listen to, it'll get 21mpg on a gentle cruise or it'll kick the ass sideways punching into 2nd gear.. Built by father and son in a little garage by hands and hearts.. it's worth FAR more than it's parts or paper value..
cars aren't about necessity, they're about what's freaking fun. so if the adrenaline from scaring the piss out of you that comes with high horsepower, go for it. If what's fun for you is carving down a mountain with 100 hp, go for it.
idk how much carving you're gonna get done with 100hp
@@savagetuner2404 miatas are one of the best canyon carvers their is
@@bigcheddar9768 more like eroding than carving
@@savagetuner2404 coming from someone thats never been in one its easy to say that
@@bigcheddar9768 bruh what
Oh mike, you named those mods like they were chump change! That car obviously has had a lot of money put in it. Please give me a break. To 99% of us that car is a 10!.
Jay C This car is all about balance. Nothing is over the top - it's simply a well done machine.
Drive BigMuscle Which is sadly so rare these days, mainly because of people wanting bragging rights rather than a true nice drive and feel.
Drive BigMuscle ***** You guys are ridiculous. Most projects aren't built with LS9's, 6 piston Brembo's, independent suspension, forged wheels etc. Those represent a tiny percentage. In every build the budget is the limiting factor (and they're a lot smaller than the one on this Malibu). I see mostly builds like ls1, lq9, 5.3's, built 302s 351w's, bunch of Willwood brakes, stock interiors, carbs etc. Praising someone for not using top of the line stuff is just plain stupid. That's like praising me for buying the house I bought. Its definitely not the one I'd pick if I were rich.
Jay C I never heard in the video them say the parts where cheap, just that they are middle of the road, And they(he) didn't say most builds are built with the parts you listed.. Most of what is in that car is over my budget, but my budget isn't the car owners budget..
+Jay C the point wasn't about cost it was about functionality. and knowing when to say that's enough.
I have to agree with Mike on every point made in this video. A balanced car is way better than trying to go all-out and put as much power down onto the road as possible.
When you think about the second "Golden Age" of muscle cars, I find it kind of amusing that people find it necessary to justify a "mere" 500HP engine. When the Dodge Viper came out in the early 90's, it had 400HP. Before F1 cars started using turbos in the 80's, they were running 500HP for decades (and yes; I know they weigh less).
The new SRT Hellcats are a factory produced 707HP, 10 second car. To put that in perspective, the Porsche 911 GT1 from 1996 was a 700HP super-car. It was designed specifically to race at 24 Hours of LeMans, and was competitive with McLaren, actually winning in 1998.
I'm not saying horsepower should be limited at all. I'm merely suggesting if you break the 600HP mark, just do everyone a favor; take it to the track (and maybe take some lessons) before you kill a minivan full of kids on their way to a little league game. Just sayin'... ;o)
Hahaha dude you don't even need to give a car 600hp for people to drive like idiots. Plenty of kids out there with off the lot Camaros and Mustangs their daddies bought for them, who have no idea how to drive them or control them when they're being stupid. You could go down a youtube rabbit hole and watch videos like "how not to leave a car show" of people totaling their cars. Although, if you have 600hp and can actually put it to use in Southern California, god bless ya! Ya don't need that much power to inch down the 405 at 15mph haha.
@@Typhoon0627 fukin A, well told bubba!
True story Bro, A 19 year old kid goes to the Chrysler dealer and picks up a "red eye" and has noooo clue how to drive it...its strictly for "look at me factor" and most of them dont even realize they are in a death machine in the wrong hands
In 1975 I bought a ten year old Malibu SS, all original, except it had been repainted a dark copper color, for $800. 283, 4BBL, 4 speed. Such a fun little ride. A damn shame things like marriage, kids and a "career" take away a mans' toys.
I did the opposite, I waited until I was settled in with the kid, divorced from the wife- THEN bought my 66 malibu! Couldn't be happier. My boy loves riding in his daddy's car
Best description of a performance car I've heard in awhile!
That car is not a 7, it is a 10. I love everything about it.
Those mid 60s cars from the big three are not flashy, but they are really beautiful when you go and look closely at them.
Everything they should be, nothing that they shouldn't.
Well, they may not have been flashy back then, but NOW... They stand out because they actually have personality.
Wish I had my '65 back. Was my second car. First was a '57 Chevy!!
requested next: Why 4000+lbs is too much.
shaft9000 or: Do you need a hair drier, fridge, + 20000 other functions in your car.
shaft9000 Those bloody SUVs man...
Kalsonic have the ground clearance to go offroad, never get used for it. have street tires but the center of gravity makes them incredibly unsporty they are so damn useless.
shaft9000 So, you've been in a Challenger I take it? lol "Hellcat!" oh pulleeze.
chilliwhiggerE
r u psychic? LOL...yeah, not the srt unfortunately, but my neighbor had the R/T (auto), with 370hp/400lb-ft. It pulls decent enough, but that's about all I liked about driving it. I'm more of a classic lightweight canyon-carver guy, so the tranny and overall feel was pretty horrid to me - though the Chally's do look badass I have to admit! I'd want one just to look at it... and tune the exhaust hehe :)
Digging the Production Value on these videos, its getting really good. Well done guys.
Swilling Agreed. I'd gladly carry Thaddeus's batteries any day ;)
in what world is a fully restored ls1/viper t56 car with all the pro touring suspension a medium car?
destro513 ikr?!!
two piece rotors...
Because they're basically limiting the definition of high-end to ludicrously powerful deathtraps. I would say this is around the border of medium and high.
This thing is well beyond medium.
@@PistonsofFury This car is... EXTRA-medium!
thank you SO SO MUCH for bringing to light how important it is to consider DRIVABILITY! 800hp don't mean shit if you're wrecked in a ditch...
I married a 7. Sometimes even a 7 is too much. She ran too hot, overheated too easily, and there was a constant whine I could never resolve. One day, she just quit on me.
Decided a real dog of a car is better because ya don't have to worry about screwing it all up. Slide off the road? No biggie. Loose linkage? Hey, ya knew that going in. Leaky pan? Yeah... better see about getting that fixed, but still... kinda nice. Run it hard. No worries.
Wait so what are we talking about
Lol
This guy is right on, I have a chopped 1968 Chevy C 10 with a cammed 5.3 LS, 7004r, a few suspension tricks and a front disk conversion and I love to drive it and it drives well. It was a factory air cab and I have big and littles on it with mini tubs, lowered with just a slight rake. Just the thumbs up and smiles are enough but with long tube headers, FlowMasters and '72 Chevy Torch Red paint it's a little hard to sneak around. I think people forgot what a vehicle sounds like with no cats, I like to remind them ............
There is _so_ much basic common sense in this video. I love it.
Except Budweiser. That'll never be 'perfectly fine' so long as I have tastebuds. Other than that, wholesome goodness all round.
***** I'm not yours.
I'm a BIG 60's Ford fan, and I would own this car in a second. Not quite as sexy as Fords lines, but REALLY nice...And the guy is 100% correct, this is the ultimate package for people who want it all. Remember, drag cars are specifically built, so are track cars, and spongy production. As a younger man, you spent ALL your $$ on trying to get something this great. I love this car. [not to mention the brain stiffening interior!!!]
well that's more your opinion that Ford lines are better looking... it's pretty much a known fact that GM (Chevrolet, olds, Pontiac, Buick, Cadillac) was the leader in styling through the 50s and 60s
Well it's implied that it was his opinion but thanks for clarifying with your opinion :P.
what I said isn't opinion, it's fact lol
@@lsxpowered7178 wrong lsfaggooo
NOW THATS an outstanding video!!!! Not only is it my first ever dream car and still in my top 3 to this day but built way better then I could have dreamed for a perfect machine. Kudos to the builder and to the excellent production of this video
great video mike, you hit the nail on the head in this article, you highlight on all the things that make a car awesome, i like the whole spectrum but you are right about the balance of the middle. making everything just right, really makes the car an all around performer, no compromise. thanks for showing it off!
Now THIS is a pro touring car!
I've seen so many people butchering the term lately and this sums it up perfectly. I see way too many people throwing rims on a stock car and dropping it a few inches and calling it pro touring. On the other hand I see people with fully stripped cars, roll cage, racing seat/harness, no AC, no radio, nothing, and they call it Pro Touring. NO! A Pro Touring car is a classic car with all the ease, comfort, and performance of a modern performance car, and this is it exactly. Its not overdone where it's obviously a track car but out of pure popularity and bandwagoning they call it Pro Touring. Yet it's not underdone where it's just lowered with rims to look the part and somehow that qualifies. This ones perfect. Its clean, comfortable, easy, has modern reliability, modern ease of handling, modern power, it's just as good at killing an autocross as it is road tripping and THAT is Pro Touring
Evan B Yup that’s exactly what I was thinking too, you nailed it!
I'm glad i clicked on this. My type of car.
A functional beast
I've never really looked at a Malibu lustfully before, but I gotta say, this one just has it goin' on. But I wouldn't say it's Chevrolet's M3 so much as it is its 2002tii. This is an awesome build, not too much, not too little. Great job. And great video.
What a well thought out street machine! Balanced, neutral handling and it's not a turbo'd small block that all it does is immolate the rear tires! Smart build on Gil's part.
Yep, that one was done right...great car!
Great video Mike, as well as a great message. I feel that gearheads nowadays on getting lost on the fact you CAN have too much horsepower. Thanks to events like TX2k, and all the other events showcasing supercars putting out 2000+ HP, Street Outlaws, etc, younger guys are trying to shoot for the moon with their builds and can never be truly happy with what they have. People need to realize there will always be someone faster, that you need to build a car that works and suits you, not the internet.
DirtyD This^^^^^!!!! You nailed it with this comment, couldnt have said it better myself
Such a great looking car outfitted with just the correct parts. A very well done video. Thank you Mike and Gil.
Great video! Not sure how this video JUST dropped into our recommended videos but glad it did!
When I was 16 , went with my grandfather to buy one of these. Had 327 , 325 hp. We drove it my grandpa said no way. Too much power for you right now. I’m 67 now and still want one .
This is one of the reasons why Koenigsegg is my favorite supercar manufactor. Maybe not the absolute fastest car out there, but they seem so functional despite the massive engine power
Awesome Malibu SS!! Great stance, perfect exhaust notes & beautiful restoration!
my very first car was a 1965 Chevy Malibu SS.i paid $675.00 for it and i was the third owner. this was in 1977.it had the 283/Power glide trans. factory a.c. ps. pb and like a idiot i sold it.where i live you never see a 65 Malibu SS or otherwise for sale. they start at 66 and newer. had a lot of good times in that car.
A surprisingly intelligent and nuanced video.
I have a 90hp car. I would kill to feel what 600hp feels like.
For serious..?
Marc Matakim scary
I drove an acord for a few years then drove my dads CTS-V Ls6 and was surprised what 450 h.p felt like in a comfortable car
don't kill, rent. Rent a high performance or supercar for a day. People forget they can do this and get to experience something they talk about online
The same with here..in my area a 300hp car are a REAL hassle..not to mention 800pony....
Gil Alfonso, My hat is off to you sir. Being 65 myself I remember the '65 Chevelle as one good looking automobile. what you did with yours is truly amazing. I'm so jealous!
The egg analogy at the end was great! Awesome video guys. A car review and lesson in one.
So I'm trying to learn more about cars, because I've always been really interested since I was young but never found a good way to learn. I can watch videos like this but I don't really get much out of it, given all of the terms that I don't know. Does anyone have any advice as to how I can learn more? Maybe how you guys learned yourselves? Any help would be appreciated, because in a few years I'll be able to own my own car and I'd love to have a good knowledge by then so I can get one I like and start working on it.
learning by doing is the only way
***** I don't have the opportunity to work on a car right now. I also don't wanna mess with a car if I don't know at all what I'm doing, especially if it's partially my parents' car, because I know they wouldn't let me. So I guess reading is what I'll be doing.
***** There's a lot to know I guess. I don't know a lot of the technical aspects (I know that's very broad, but I don't have a specific focus. I need a general knowledge first), so that would be where I wanna learn.
Ryjongle Besides this year I have never wrenched on my own car and know a lot about a wide range of vehicles. If possible go to some local car meets with a friend and look around. Most car people would be happy to explain what you are looking at. The more videos you watch and the more meets you attend the faster you will get an idea of the trends in the type of engines used by the aftermarket and also the significance of why certain companies build cars on their platform the way they do. If you don't know where to start use Google and find a company that interests you. From there search online for a forum where owners group together to go in extreme detail about specific cars and where they normally go for car meets.
***** I subbed to it and I'll watch some soon. Thanks for the suggestion
So tired of people getting into cars they don't own and lecturing to others about what is right and what is wrong in a car.
Build a car the way you want to and put as many horses under the hood as you want. And I didn't need a video to tell anyone that.
Musto does have a point in regards to not overbuilding your first car to the point where you can't get comfortable with it. Makes sense to start a bit more mild and work your way up over time.
Dude used to be cool
Getting old listening to him.
LT1HILLINGHOE then it’s really curious to know why you watch the video?
Be some pretty boring content if he only reviewed his own car over and over and would really suck for car guys that want to see other people’s cars.
It cracks me up that people like you seem to get so butt hurt because of innocent videos like this.
Yeah, these people all "build" cars with parts that are already manufactured like they invented the thing because they just chose the brand of each part 😂 you don't really KNOW anything, just put it together, drive it, and stop making yourselves seem like gods.
@BR-P-2001 // Ok...his opinion is ur a clown. In all fairness, that's everyone's opinion, clown.
Excellent points about how to build a car to enjoy. My Stingray is done somewhat similar. No 'bling', just the correct parts for the application. It measures out at 530 HP@ 6,200 rpm and 545 ft/lbs of torque@4,100 rpm. The VE% between 3800 and 4400 however is 130%!! The combination of parts for the engine worked out superb, and it's very reliable. I chose to install one of AutoGears M23 Muncie Z ratio 4 speed transmission, which works very well with the stock 3.36 rear gears. It has a few suspension mods, mainly just springs/shocks and a few other things in there that Guldstrand had in his catalog. A very balanced approach to my build. Overall I am very pleased with the outcome, and it's a blast to drive with the T-top off too. Great video, thanks.
I have a 68 Camaro RS/SS. It drives like a 7. Has good power with a 350/351 Ramjet, 700-R-4 Streetbeater with power going to a Currie 9" with 3:55 gears. So it very street-able, with power, and very cruise-able on the Power Tour in 2018. Some Shows are 250+ miles away, so it's just a nice drive both ways. A lot of looks, and a lot of fun. Thanks for the video.
I reckon 600whp is the sweet spot. It's more than enough to make you giggle everytime you step on it. I've got a 400whp LS1 and kinda disappointed.
A Vong depends on the car if it's a 60's Chevy anything then yeah, but say if it's a C4 Vette 400whp in a car that light will make you sqeual
A Vong i have a 110hp alpha ii and it goes fast enough to get a huge ticket!
+Jermaine Riley You can get a 60s Chevy to weigh 3200lbs, but it won't be comfortable lol.
lol i like carpet and comfy seats lol
I have a 120 bhp hyundai. I'd kill for 200 whp.
anyone can build their own car, but did they actually forge the steel crank or cast the iron? did they buy the engine standard or did they bore the cylinders and grind the crank. sure they can install flat top pistons and roller rockers but did he choose which mine the iron ore came from.
megamind
Lux-de-luce Why would you want to waste all that time and expense when the parts are already cheaply available?
Im guessing all these things seperate the "true" car guy from the wannabes right ?
not everyone can build their own vehicle are you kidding me. I am an automotive apprentice, I work at a shop with an engine builder with 40+ years experience, and even he collaborates with other individuals to confirm part, ignition timing, cam grind, lobe seperation, gear ratio. very very few people actually have the ability and skill to build a vehicle from the ground up by themselves.
There's a difference between building and fabricating.
So well thought out and executed, this is my kind of car. I hope to achieve this level of style and function in my 81 G.P w/a LS5.
I watched this video a few times. I just love the commentary and the simplicity of it.
It's all about harmony.
s0nnyburnett Exactly.
Get the Farmtruck on this show!!!!
Keep these badass car reviews coming. I love it!!!
It takes a stunning amount of skill and patience to get all those components working that beautifully together.
I would take a properly built "medium" car over an unreliable and costly "high" built car.
This episode is a medium.
When you look at a really beautiful person and try to define beauty it becomes really hard, because what defines it is not this or that, its the absence of faults and the symmetry of the form. It's more about what it isn't than what it is. This car is the automotive equivalent, and the owner has made himself one of the nicest cars in the world. And I'm not even into muscle cars or even black cars in general, but that thing is really exquisite. Kudos.
I have a 65 Mustang straight-6 200 ci. It's 'only' a six cylinder, but it puts a smile on my face every time I get in it.
I think I fell in love with old American cars... They sound so beautiful and look amazing. Here in the EU we have downsized and mostly diesel cars. Sound like a shit, smell even worse. Once I grow up, I must buy some old muscle car.
EU bureaucratic pussies would probably shit their pants because of CO2 emissions...
+Free Thinker Stay in school because you'll need deep pockets, even for a 7. Most older muscle cars are rusty, rattly, sloppy steering, unreliable. It took him several thousand dollars and several thousand hours to get that car where you see it.
+TheGoldenSaber That's the fun of an old vehicle though
500bhp sounds about right for a daily driver.
My goal is only 275whp, but then again my car is way lighter than old American iron and also fits much narrower tires
@ as Rambo this was filmed in the beautiful Livermore Ca. The road that leads to Del Valle Lake. Great video of a great car in a great place by a great guy. Thanks for another awesome video.
James
God damnit wipe your camera lens there is a black dot!!!!
FSXgta That's on the sensor, not the lens. It's harder to deal with, and you don't see it til you watch the footage.
God is responsible for all things, no? So logically, it's his fault.
FSXgta No there isnt
highlands Really? I care enough to write back? That's where this discussion is going?
grabir01 That makes no sense at all. And you call me stupid because I have no religion? That's not very christian of you is it? Sounds more like a muslim that looks down on infidels. Oh wait...Islam and christianity are almost the same. I forgot. Get of your pedestal and be human. Not some creation of someone in a book.
2 years later, you can go to a Dodge dealership, and buy an 800+ hp vehicle there. :)
I really don't like the trend of putting brand new rims on classics. Just doesn't really fit in my opinion. Rest of the car is awesome though!
***** i thought they were a good choice personally, not too showy, but bigger and wider so they can accommodate more suitable rubber
***** Yeah, he should have put Wide Ovals and wide steelies on it, Huh?
Wheels**
***** Chevy rally wheels are about at the top of the list of best looking factory wheel on an old muscle car. Today's designs make the accessories the art of the car; wheels, tires, lights, etc. Older designs, the car itself is the art!
Definitely can't go wrong with some torque thrust type of wheels. But at the end of the day can't get mad at some for stepping outside the box and doing something different.
Everyone can't ride around on stock replicas or steelies especially with 17in rotors...
You guys have it perfect! I would love to build a retry similar car with some difference that appeal to me. Maybe if the va ever helps get fixed again I'll send you a pic. Thanks for a great video! Joe
Yes Mick finally you are back on track with a well balanced program !! loved the car
Its all about balance. I have an AE86 pushing out only 144BHP but its balanced so I can enjoy it all of the time no matter where I am.
Really overplaying what it takes to build a decently powered, reliable car.
Incorrect really. You understate the thought that went in IMO.
i really like watching your videos! You have a great attitude towards the work of the car owners. You admire what they do and show love for our all hobby- nice cars! :)
although i am basically a fan of high tech perfection cars like a Porsche for example, i love your american cars and backyard built cars aswell! They are great pieces of art. They really transmit your way of life and everytime i see an american car i get a smile on my face and start daydreaming a bit.
And to be honest, i am actually sick of the people (in general) hating against european cars, japanese cars, us cars or where ever they are from.. All engineers and mechanics did great work and try to make the best out of their given sources.. :)
thanks for your loving behaiviour in the videos!!
greetings from germany
Always enjoy watching you shows :D
If only the new malibu's looked like this one :/
hahaha good luck with that... They aren't called Mali-poo now cause they're awesome. They've already tarnished the name of Malibu and Impala with their disgusting and unimpressive reboots... and if they tried to reboot the Malibu again and make it look like a 65, I have a feeling it'd take about 10 years to develop, the concepts would all have crazy V8s and tons of HP, and the production model would have pussified v6, and be about as good as the Total Recall reboot.
Typhoon0627 well the 2018 Malibu Premiere edition has a “pussified” turbo 4 banger that does 0-60 in 5.7 that I wouldn’t mind trading in my 2010 Malibu LTZ with its “pussiefied” V6 that does it in 6.3.
Of course neither of them compare to my 14 Camaro 1LE, but I still like them for the “pussified” cars they are.
They are more practical than my Camaro and have good passing power. Especially when compared to a lot of other sedans.
I have a 150hp PT Cruiser, I'd kill to have 175. -_-
You know the PT Cruiser GT had a turbo, 230 HP stock. I'm borrowing a PT Cruiser right now, I know what its like. Its got about 190k on it, and the struts have never been changed on it. It drives like a bobble head around corners.
My brother had a PT-GT with a few "basic" mods done; (Tune, ported/polished head, cam, upgraded turbo, ect...) ...that was pushing a little under 420ish horsepower to the front wheels...it's basically a Neon SRT-4 that caught a cold, and got in a fight with something nasty...Nah, For about one...maybe two-ish thousand...you could make them into pretty mean car,suv,whatevers...We call them; Sleepers... And, we also call the manufacturers lazy, for making us do the necessary upgrades to make their performance models shine...
You don't know what it's like man. I wish I had 150. My 03 focus had 120 factory. It's probably about 100 now.
Lucky i make 106 in my 4.0 explorer (yes it runs like shit)
I've got a sub 100 hp scamp (73 so its got the understroked 225)... I wouldn't change it for anything :)
Beautiful car, I remember the commercials on TV back in the 60s about the Chevy Malibu SS. The commercials made me want one, but alas I was 11 years old so I bought the model and painted/glued it together instead. I also loved the Impala, Camaro, GTX, GTO, and other beautiful AMERICAN MADE cars from the 50s, 60s & 70s that I would read about (buy the models) in Hot Rod & Car Craft magazines. I wound up ordering and owning a 1977 Black with Black Velour Interior Trans Am 6.6 SE, I ordered it in Sept.1976, before "the movie" but did not get to pick it up from the dealership in Florida till April 1977, due to USAF duty requirements which sent me to Germany for a few months.
I really enjoyed this video. It encapsulates what I've thought about so called 'Muscle Cars'. Here is a sensible custom with updates to make it superior to original yet retaining the classic look. Lots of the show cars have virtually full race engines ,wild styling..but never see the road .Seems pointless. I would love such a beautiful car and enjoy driving it.
"2 pot calipers with 12 pistons"
lol
Its not top tier, but its above average and that's what a modified street car is all about.
Awesome. Great video. The car is a 10. The color combinations is excellent.
Excellent video of a car I'd like to own. Thanks for posting it.
Mike Musto explains why the Internet is wrong and this this balanced Malibu is right.
I've put 40K miles on my 2012 850 HP Shelby Super Snake (Mustang) without an issue. It is no more difficult to drive than any of the 300-600 HP cars I've owned. Common Sense dictates driveability in cars with high horsepower.
Completley agree
Great Informative Video.Would Like the Same Set -Up in a 66 SS Chevelle.Trouble With the Old Muscles of 60' s & Earlly 70s,W as Most Suspensions Couldn' t Hold the Power to the Road on Curves That's Why U See So Few of The HEMI Cudas, 440 CHALLENGERS & Other Big Muscles Left .Lots Of Them Were Totaled, & Other Big Blocks ,Also.
You are SO right! A balanced car is pure gold 👍😎
What this video seeks to explain has a name. It's called "engineering" and they teach it in school.
those wheels are to modern for this car
I love the review, thank you. I would pay big bucks for that exact car. That's a real Malibu.
800hp is ok if it is upgraded to 4wd.
Charles Macgilchrist anyone who makes an American classic in to an AWD deserves a bullet
actually the front wheels will spin if you make it 4wd. 4wd only makes sense on surfaces with very low grip (rally)
John Scarce no not necessarily, it depends on what awd system you use and what onboard technology you use like torque vectoring, launch control etc
charles said 4wd which means 3 diffs connecting all wheels all the time
John Scarce my bad
So well-stated that I had to watch it twice! Mike really knows what he's talking about here...
I grew up in 1965 Malibu with a L 79 and I do mean grew up , loved every second of it
I think the car looks absolutely awesome and the message of the clip has a lot of validity.
See Jeff Smith of Petersen Publishing's car from the 1990s. As a former '65 Chevelle owner this is nice to see. I spent 15 years with my car; engine swaps, suspension upgrades, bracket racing, SCCA, etc. !!
Bill Freelin made one of these 65's that is amazing. It was featured in Chevelle magazine Fall 2012.
So spot on!! This is how to build a car for driving, and what is a car that cant drive...
I love the message of this video. It's exactly the approach I'm taking to build my '69 Mustang. I don't want it to be some crazy thing with 7000 horsepower, I just need a nice, reliable and relatively fun car to cruise around in. Medium for the win indeed!
Kaleido reminds me of a cousin that built his fast back mustang to I think 700-800hp and he couldn't drive it in the rain or even around a track it barely got driven and he sold it later.. you definitely won't regret having reliable power you can actually use on the street :)
Rick James he could do a AWD swap
Awesome videography!
8:48 - 8:56
is the best way to describe 80 and older cars,as well as say what 90's and on cars are missing
That is simply perfect. Beautiful
Man that vehicle sounds amazing, it sounds sooo...correct and proper too, almost like a stock supercar or something. *Hell this sounds better than most supercars IMO.*
Great build! Love it!
Agreed. My 1968 Road Runner had a 426 Hemi making 500bhp and that was more than enough. My current "toy" is a 1980 Turbo Trans am with the original rebuilt 4.9L and modern intercooled turbo making 345bhp and that is plenty.
I speak from experience. He is 100% correct. That car is just right a fine balance. I had a 66 Chevelle SS 396 475hp 4 spd Borg Warner T10 12 bolt posi 4.11 and a single track 4.06. Rear could be changed in 2 hours or less and I had the perfect trip car and one to mud hole stomp most others. This was the late 80's so I was king of the street in my area. I stomped so many fox bodies it got tiresome, even with the 406s. Near the end I also got a 3.73 posi rear, I feel 3.55 would of been the sweet spot for all around driving. It was one of my most memorable cars that I owned as the paint was A1 with a clean rust free chassis. Was it the best, well at the time it was close enough and still would be. It would of been perfect with better brakes and steering. Now I'm more of a pro tourer type, I want quick but handles and stops well. If I was to do it again it would be a Ford maybe a Fairlane or Falcon. A newer car it would be a Mustang, no question. It just amazes me seeing the times a newer vehicle, slightly modded can lay down at the track. That same car will also daily no problem. The hardest thing on the street is hooking up
That's one of the best episodes yet. That car is just right.
Driving around Lake Del Valle. Some great roads there.
Mr. Musto i love your videos. I could trust you to buy a car for me, and know I would love your selection. Onward Sir, I'll be watching, and enjoying the education.
I would love to build something similar one day. My barber has a Malibu but I'd like to do a similar build like this(more "pro-touring" I guess you could say). I have a lot to learn, though, as I didn't grow up wrenching on older cars.
Love this ride! Great commentary...thank you... I have a 65 Malibu SS convertible with 327 and a powerglide(not as fun).. Beefed
Up around 340 hp. Triple black...I'll trade?
My Boss 347 Cougar is likely right in the middle, it makes 550 HP and I spent the last 4 years working out the bugs of a complete rebuild and modify project. My car weighs 3200 with the original V6 but now is about 100 pounds more. I will spend the next 4 years making sure I have the right amount of front and rear bar, weight jacking, camber angle, CG location, and checking that corner weights are where I want them to be for what I need. I will never pound my car like I did when I was auto-crossing it years ago but will find the place where its turning and handling is predictable and safe at any speed I decide to drive it at. Driving and therefore building is all about balance. I agree, most miss it.
almost like life
Great job Gil, you got it right "built, not bought "
Mike is right. I have a 1968 GTO with a 400 that puts out 360 hp. it has mostly stock brakes and suspension. I love it just like it is. No wait, I'd like to change the steering box to something a bit tighter.
EXACTLY... My dad and I picked up and drove across the country and then restored a 72 Monte Carlo to "as stock" as possible condition... Except adding a ZZ4 crate motor, (350ish hp).. 700r4 trans, big dual exhaust, and 3.55 LSD.. Replaced all of the brake components and suspension gear, master cylinder, lines, bushings shocks, etc with new.. Factory parts.. reliability.
It's a " good"car.. it'll turn your head to look at and listen to, it'll get 21mpg on a gentle cruise or it'll kick the ass sideways punching into 2nd gear..
Built by father and son in a little garage by hands and hearts.. it's worth FAR more than it's parts or paper value..
its beautiful, thanks for sharing it!