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Chevrolet Malibu El Camino (Sedan Pickup) 3.8 V6 (115 Hp) CAT Automatic
Overall Rating
Chevrolet Malibu:
The Chevrolet Malibu is a mid-size car that was manufactured and marketed by Chevrolet from 1964 to 1983 and from 1997 to 2025. The Malibu began as a trim-level of the Chevrolet Chevelle, becoming its own model line in 1978. Originally a rear-wheel-drive intermediate, GM revived the Malibu nameplate as a front-wheel-drive car in 1997.
Named after the coastal community of Malibu, California, the Malibu has been marketed primarily in North America, with the eighth generation introduced globally. Malibu production in the US ended in November 2024, as the Fairfax plant is being retooled for the upcoming second-generation Chevrolet Bolt. The Malibu is now the last sedan to have been sold by Chevrolet in the US....(Read more on Wikipedia)
El Camino (Sedan Pickup) Overview:
Chevrolet Malibu (El Camino (Sedan Pickup)). With 237 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. A vehicle with an open cargo bed at the back, suitable for transporting goods. Seating for 3 makes it ideal for daily use.
3.8 V6 (115 Hp) CAT Automatic Verdict:
Performance Verdict
The most powerful V6 option, providing adequate power for most daily driving scenarios. Still not a powerhouse, but a solid, economical choice for the era.
Fuel Economy
The best fuel economy among the automatic options, though still a relative term for a 1978 vehicle. A practical choice for those mindful of fuel.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Unique sedan-pickup styling
- • Versatile utility with comfortable car-like ride
- • Range of robust V8 engine options
- • Classic American car appeal
- • Spacious cabin for two/three occupants
- • Relatively simple and easy to maintain mechanics
Cons:
- • Poor fuel economy across the board
- • Soft suspension leads to wallowy handling
- • Limited modern safety features
- • Prone to rust in certain areas
- • V6 engines can feel underpowered
- • Large turning radius for city driving
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(IV Sedan: 1979 - 1980).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | Chevrolet |
| Model: | Malibu |
| Generation: | El Camino (Sedan Pickup) |
| Modification (Engine): | 3.8 V6 (115 Hp) CAT Automatic |
| Start of production: | 1980 |
| End of production: | 1981 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Pick-up |
| Seats: | 3 |
| Doors: | 2 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 115 Hp @ 4000 rpm. |
| Power per litre: | 30.7 Hp/l |
| Torque: | 237 Nm @ 2000 rpm. |
| Engine displacement: | 3751 |
| Number of cylinders: | 6 |
| Engine configuration: | V-engine |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 2 |
| Fuel injection system: | Carburettor |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain: | OHV |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Cylinder Bore: | 95 mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 88.4 mm |
| Compression ratio: | 8.6:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Trunk (boot) space - maximum: | 2033 l |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 66 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle: | 14° |
| Length: | 5121 mm [226mm more] |
| Width: | 1826 mm [10mm more] |
| Height: | 1380 mm [26mm more] |
| Wheelbase: | 2974 mm [229mm more] |
| Front track: | 1486 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1467 mm |
| Front overhang: | 915 mm |
| Rear overhang: | 1232 mm |
| Ride height (ground clearance): | 136 mm |
| Approach angle: | 23° |
| Departure angle: | 16° |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 3 |
| Transmission type | Automatic |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Rear brakes | Drum [bad for performance and cooling.] |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 205/75 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.0J x 14 |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | dependent spring suspension, Transverse stabilizer, Trailing arm |
Does the Chevrolet Malibu live up to the hype? Give us your verdict!