Some cars were built to fly under the radar. The 1969 Chevrolet Chevelle COPO Malibu is one of those rare factory sleepers. With only around 323 COPO examples produced, this Malibu coupe hides serious muscle beneath its Fathom Green finish.
Rare COPO Configuration and Provenance
Delivered new to Norwood Motor Co. in Rhode Island, this Chevelle Malibu COPO came equipped with the L72 427 V8. That engine wasn’t available through standard ordering, it required a Central Office Production Order. This car’s build sheet confirms its COPO pedigree.
Restored With Precision and Care
The seller acquired the car in 2005 and sent it to JenJac’s Restoration in Georgia. The body was removed from the frame, stripped, and repainted in its factory Fathom Green. Glass panes were replaced, brightwork was polished and re-plated, and a black vinyl roof cover was fitted.
Power and Performance: L72 Big-Block Muscle
Under the hood sits a 427ci L72 V8 rated at 425 horsepower. It’s paired with a Muncie M22 heavy-duty four-speed manual transmission and a PosiTraction rear axle with 4.10:1 gears. The engine, alternator, and distributor were rebuilt, and the wiring harness was replaced during the restoration.
Factory Options and Driving Equipment
This COPO Malibu features J52 power-assisted front disc brakes and unassisted steering. Sport wheels wear Firestone Wide Oval white-letter tires, with a matching spare in the trunk. The suspension and drivetrain were overhauled to match the car’s original specs.
Interior That Keeps It Classic
Inside, black vinyl bucket seats and a rear bench sit over color-keyed carpets. A Muncie shifter, AM radio, and cabin heater round out the appointments. The Malibu-branded steering wheel fronts factory gauges, and the odometer shows 28k miles, just 25 added since the restoration.
Documentation and Authenticity
Included with the car are a build sheet, a Certificate of Authenticity and Appraisal from Camaro Hi-Performance LLC, and an NCRS Shipping Data Report. These documents confirm its origin, equipment, and restoration quality.
Summary
This 1969 Chevrolet Chevelle COPO Malibu blends understated style with raw factory power. With its L72 big-block, M22 gearbox, and verified COPO status, it’s a rare piece of muscle car history that’s ready to be appreciated.
Disclaimer: Vehicle specifications, restoration details, and documentation are provided by the seller and should be independently verified.
