[ChrisScott]

Hello,

I am new to the site. In fact, I am new to forums entirely. As such, I have NO idea what I am doing!
In complete honesty, I was sort of randomly clicking buttons that SEEMED to make sense and they led me to this screen where I'm HOPING what I write will be posted for other people to see and respond to... but I have no idea if that's the case.

Basically I recently purchased a 1979 Malibu and am using it as my daily driver.
However, it has the original engine and transmission and not a lot of power and I'm looking for something that is going to run reliably for the next ten to twenty years!
So I'm thinking of replacing the engine and tranny entirely.

Now I say "I'm thinking of replacing..." but I'm not that guy. I'm not a mechanic. I barely understand how my engine works.
I acknowledge that!
Which is why I am on the forum.

I'm looking for input about what types/sizes of motors would fit in my car, and what I might reasonably expect to pay for such services... and about a million other things too.

So if you want to chat with me about how best to turn a BEAUTIFUL brown 1979 4 door Chevy Malibu into a gorgeous but updated and modernized dash display, fuel injected, etc. one of a kind car...

Drop me a line!

Because I don't know crap about crap... and I need to learn.

 

[DrivenDaily]

This is a rare treat! Would you be able to share a picture or two of your ride? I used to own a 1975 Nova (square-ish body) with a 350, 4-bbl, and 3-speed auto.

How many miles do you know or think are actually on the car and/or the engine?

 

[cp-the-nerd]

The most common way to get a modern, reliable V8 under the hood is to find yourself a 5.3L LS motor from a junkyard. There are tons of bolt on modifications, cam options, etc that can give you anything from a mild 300 horsepower cruiser personality to a 350-400 hp beast.

You are entirely welcome to post your ownership journey here on Chevy Malibu Forum, but it's probably not going to be the knowledge base you need for a complicated restomod.

 

[ChrisScott]

Thanks guys. So I have a few pictures. As for the advice... keep it coming. One guy mentioned getting a motor from a junkyard but I have the funds to get something new... so that’s what I’d like. But again... no idea what might fit and how much power I should be aiming for..?

 

[DrivenDaily]

Crate motor, then consider an add-on EFI kit with either TBFI or SPI.

 

[cp-the-nerd]

The Chevrolet website has a section for new crate engines. Everything from the classic low-tech carbureted 350 to the completely rad new cammed LS427 with 570 horsepower. They also offer turn-key versions with transmissions already attached.

Engines, Transmissions, Components and Upgrades | Performance

Chevrolet Performance fuels the passion of automotive enthusiast by offering Crate Engines, Transmissions, Blocks, and Components for project cars.

www.chevrolet.com

 

[ChrisScott]

Guys... REALLY appreciate all the info!!!!! And the link to the engines. So thank you!
I’ll be checking out all your suggestions for sure.

 

[cp-the-nerd]

I still really recommend you look for a car restoration community that can help you with details like compatibility and fitment modifications.

 

[Camaroman]

That Malibu came with 3.2L V-6, 3.8L V-6, 4.4L V-8, and 5.7L V-8. It also came with either a Turbo 200 or Turbo 350 Transmission, the easiest and cheapest way to boost power is a 5.7L small block which can come in some very impressive HP and a Newer style transmission. It would give you ease of installation without major electric mods and and fewer headaches. Especially if you have to rely on others to do the install and tuning. I had a 79 Malibu with the 4.4L. But being a gear head and Rochester Products employee (Carb Manufacturer for GM) I didn't have to worry about getting work done.