Chevrolet Malibu El Camino (Sedan Pickup) 5.7 V8 (170 Hp) CAT Automatic

Overall Rating

7.3 / 10

Safety N/A / 5

Not Rated

Engine 2.5 / 5

Value 4.2 / 5

Performance 3.5 / 5

Comfort 4.0 / 5

People\'s Opinion N/A / 5

Not Rated

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 366 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.

5.7 V8 (170 Hp) CAT Automatic Verdict:

Performance Verdict

A strong V8 option providing ample power for highway cruising, towing, and more confident acceleration. The automatic transmission complements its relaxed power delivery.

Fuel Economy

As expected for a large V8 from this era, fuel consumption is high. Not for the economy-minded, but delivers on power.

Best Use Case: Highway / Towing / Utility

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:

General:
Brand:	Chevrolet
Model:	Malibu
Generation:	El Camino (Sedan Pickup)
Modification (Engine):	5.7 V8 (170 Hp) CAT Automatic
Start of production:	1977
End of production:	1978
Powertrain Architecture:	Internal Combustion engine
Body type:	Pick-up
Seats:	3
Doors:	2

Engine:
Power:	170 Hp @ 3800 rpm.
Power per litre:	29.7 Hp/l
Torque:	366 Nm @ 2400 rpm.
Engine displacement:	5733
Number of cylinders:	8
Engine configuration:	V-engine
Number of valves per cylinder:	2
Fuel injection system:	Carburettor
Engine aspiration:	Naturally aspirated engine
Valvetrain:	OHV
Engine oil capacity:	4.3 l
Engine layout:	Front, Longitudinal
Cylinder Bore:	101.6 mm mm
Piston Stroke:	88.39 mm mm
Compression ratio:	8.2:1

Performance:
Fuel Type:	Petrol (Gasoline)

Space:
Trunk (boot) space - maximum:	2033 l
Fuel tank capacity:	66 l

Size:
Ramp-over (brakeover) angle:	13°
Length:	5121 mm mm
Width:	1826 mm mm
Height:	1366 mm mm
Wheelbase:	2974 mm mm
Front track:	1486 mm
Rear (Back) track:	1467 mm
Front overhang:	915 mm
Rear overhang:	1232 mm
Ride height (ground clearance):	147 mm
Approach angle:	20°
Departure angle:	15°

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
Rear brakes	Drum
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