Dale
Fri, 20 Jun 2008 19:04:58 -0700
> -----Original Message----- > > The seller writes "The performance engines available included 396 in³ > V8s - rated at 325, 350 and 375 hp" but then goes on to say that this > one is rated at 360HP. Is it a one-of-a-kind engine? > In fairness, the seller goes on to state, "(the mid horsepower 396 was rated at 360 hp (270 kW) for 1966 only and 350 hp (260 kW) thereafter)" To quote an article by Cam Milne, "As for the Malibu SS, it was the means by which you got bucket seats in your 135 or 136-series Malibu Sport Coupe or Convertible. In the U.S., the RPO A51 stood for Bucket Seats, but in Canada it stood for an option package referred to by GM Canada as The Sports Option [along with some trim additions]." So, a Malibu SS is not an especially big deal in-and-of-itself, essentially a Malibu with bucket seats. When you add the 360hp 396, you have a 396 powered 13617 Malibu and not a 13817 SS396 - but it still might be a nice car. Not sure, but I don't think the SS396 (138xx) was available in Canada until January of the 67 model year. "I have a letter from George Zapora - GM Canada dated June 16, 2008 that verifies the SS designation and optional equipment in this vehicle. I also have a letter from a collector that claims there is only one other 1966 Malibu SS convertible from this production sequence still in existence." Even the paperwork supplied by Mr. Zapora only tells how many of a model number, e.g., 13667, are produced. Engines installed or particular options are not part of the equation. Collectors can claim what they wish and often do to inflate their car's value or their own egos. But I agree the $999,999.99 is a bit silly... Dale