Logo

1973 Chevrolet Chevelle

The '73 Chevelle: a classic muscle car's mellowing. Bigger, softer than its predecessors, it marked a shift away from raw power. Still undeniably cool, its sleek lines and available SS package kept it relevant. A symbol of the era's changing automotive landscape, it remains a beloved muscle car icon.

History of the 1973 Chevrolet Chevelle Malibu

Part of the third generation Chevelle lineup, the 1973 model came to life amidst a flurry of regulatory changes aimed at making our roads safer. This included introducing standardized front seat headrests and revamped instrument panels. Yep, those were the times when muscle cars—like the Chevelle—had to blend raw power with newfound safety.

Photo of a 1973 Chevrolet Chevelle

1973 Chevrolet Chevelle Models:

Select the vehicle's model to see the correct data for it.

How Much is Chevrolet Chevelle Worth?

Original MSRP :$3,115.00

Outstanding

tooltip
$14,900

Clean

tooltip
$11,400

Average

tooltip
$9,300*

Rough

tooltip
$6,300

1973 Chevrolet Chevelle Specs

Body Maker: Fisher
No. Of Doors: 4
Passengers: 6
Model Number: 1E29
Length: 207.9 inches
Width: 76.6 inches
Height: 53.3 inches
Wheelbase: 116 inches
Weight: 3,627lbs
Type: Turbo-Fire V8, valve-in-head, Dual downdraft, Fully synchronous 3-speed manual
Displacement: 307 cu. in.
Cylinders: 8
Bore And Stroke: 3 7/8 & 3 1/4 inches
Compression Ratio Standard: 8.5 to 1
Horsepower Brake: 115@3600
Horsepower Rated: 48.05
Torque: 205@2000
Main Bearings: 5
Valve Lifters: Hydraulic
Block Material: Cast alloy iron
Engine Number Location: On pad at front right side of cylinder block.
Lubrication: Pressure to all bearings excluding wrist pin
Carburetor Make: Rochester
Type:
3 Pints
Drive:
Rear wheel drive
Clutch Type:
Single plate dry disc
Clutch Size:
10 1/3 inches
Gear Ratios:
3
Gear Ratios First:
2.85 to 1
Gear Ratios Second:
1.68
Gear Ratios Third:
1 to 1
Gear Ratios Fourth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Fifth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Reverse:
2.95
Type: Semifloating
Differential Type: Hypoid
Differential Ratio: 3.08 to 1
Front: Independent ball joint with coil springs
Rear: Coil link
Service Type: Hydraulic, self-adjusting drums
Service Front Size: 9.5 inches
Service Rear Size: 9.5 inches
Emergency Type: Rear service brakes
Emergency Size: 9.5 inches
Type: Regular
Tire Size: G78 x 14
Spare Location: Trunk
Fuel: 22 Gallons
Oil: 4 Quarts
Rear Differential: 4.25 Pints
Front Differential: Not applicable
Transfer Case: Not applicable
Serial Number:Starting 1E29F3a100001
Total Digits:13
Digits 1:Make
Digits 2:Series
Digits 3-4:Body style
Digits 5:Engine
Digits 6:Model year
Digits 7:Assembly plant
Digits 8-13:Production number
Tuxedo Black, Antique White, Light Blue Metallic, Dark Blue Metallic., Midnight Blue Metallic, Medium Green Metallic, Dark Green Metallic, Light Green Metallic, Green Gold Metallic, Midnight Green, Light Yellow, Medium Blue, Chamois, Light Copper Metallic, Light Orange, Medium Bronze Metallic, Silver Metallic, Taupe Metallic, Dark Brown Metallic, Dark Red Metallic, Medium Red, Beige, All colors may not be available in all models.
Sedan: Opt
350 Cu. In. V8 Engine: Opt
454 Cu. In. V8 Engine: Opt
Air Conditioning: Opt
Power Brakes: Opt
Power Steering: Opt
Radio: Opt

Interested in buying a classic car or selling one?

Access detailed history reports for classic vehicles from hundreds of manufacturers.

  • play
    Accident Records
  • play
    Theft Records
  • play
    Loan & Lien Information
  • play
    Auction Information
  • play
    Salvage Information and more
What is Not Included in a Classic Car Build Sheet

Famous Figures Who Own the Chevelle

The 1973 Chevelle Malibu didn't just ride on the roads; it sprinted full throttle into pop culture. Take Ryan Gosling for example—his character wielded a stripped-down version in the movie "Drive." Eh, nothing screams cool more than a primer gray muscle car tearing through city streets in a film. That's not all. It also found fame in comedies like "Talladega Nights," where it shared scenes with none other than a live cougar! Who thought blindfolded driving could look so fun?

Learn more about a classic car: Get Build Sheet by VIN.

Access reproduced classic build sheets to learn more about your classic vehicle details.

  • play
    Standard Specifications
  • play
    Original Base Price
  • play
    Standard & Optional Equipment
  • play
    Exterior & Interior Colors
  • play
    VIN ID & Location description
Classic Build Sheets by VIN

Price Records and Market Appeal

To be honest, this classic hasn't just turned heads; it's turned profits too! Auction prices for preserved examples of the 1973 Malibu have shot up, with some fetching as much as $55,000. Not too shabby for a car that originally hit the market as an affordable ride. The presence of this model in films and other media has only heightened its appeal among collectors.

Pop Culture and the Chevelle

The Chevelle didn't simply roll onto showroom floors; it drove onto film sets, etching its place in cinematic history. Beyond "Drive," it starred in slice-of-life depictions like the film "Dazed and Confused," where its mere presence defined an era of rebellion and Americana. Songs have even mentioned this classic, proof of its resonance beyond mere automotive circles.

Interested in Buying or Selling a Classic Car?

Got a Chevelle on your mind or considering passing one on? Know that the car's story is as important as its bodywork. This is where vehicle history reports can be absolute lifesavers. Classic Decoder provides invaluable bits like:

  • play
    Accident Records
  • play
    Theft Records
  • play
    Loan & Lien Information
  • play
    Auction Information
  • play
    Salvage Information and more!

For cars with VINs predating the 1980s, a pre-1981 VIN decoder could be a game-changer. Plus, whether you're dealing with a or a , you'll be covered.

Those fond of the Chevelle Malibu might want to explore options for securing a classic car history report or even obtaining a car build sheet to ensure authenticity.

So, whether a Chevelle is on your wish list or you're considering whether it's time to bid goodbye, history makes all the difference. Treat it right, and you'll find your classic not just pleasing on the eye, but on the ledger too.

Classic Car VIN Lookup App |Now available on both Android and iOS!

At Classic Decoder, we believe that developing a mobile app is a great way to extend our classic car data solution hub to as many users as possible across the globe. Our app is built with users and precision in mind. It holds the key to unlocking the history and details of any retro car at your fingertips. It also comes with fascinating and user-friendly features that make it stand out from other mobile apps designed for this purpose.

The Classic Decoder app lets you decode and lookup any classic VIN in a flash. Access accurate vehicle information and history, make an informed decision faster, and buy and trade in classic cars with confidence.

Classic Decoder App

Download The Classic Decoder App now.

Some unique features include:

  • play
    Support all classic VIN lengths from 5 to 13 digits
  • play
    Support classic cars produced from 1910 – 1980
  • play
    Online Garage features – to add and manage your vehicles
  • play
    24/7 Customer Support
  • play
    Easy onboarding for first-time users

Explore Chevrolet Chevelle from Other Years

Frequently Asked Questions

Well, let's see... The '73 Chevelle, unlike its predecessors, sported a more rounded, less aggressive look; think of it as a smoother, more refined version of its earlier, sharper self. Key features include the revised front grille, those distinctive rectangular headlights (can't miss 'em!), and the overall body shape – a bit more flowing, if you catch my drift. It's kinda like comparing a sharp, angular suit to a more relaxed, comfortable one. Oh, and don't forget about the taillights; they're a pretty telltale sign, you know? Those details really set it apart from the earlier models, making it easily recognizable to any classic car enthusiast; even someone like your Uncle Joe, who knows next to nothing about cars, could probably pick one out!

Okay, so the engine choices for a '73 Chevelle were pretty darn diverse. You had everything from the smaller, more fuel-efficient six-cylinder options—perfect for cruising around town—to the monstrous big-block V8s, those real gas-guzzlers that would blow your socks off. Yeah, those were the muscle car powerhouses. There's a huge range in there, you know, offering different performance levels to suit different tastes and budgets. You had small-block V8s in the middle too, providing a good balance of power and efficiency; think of them as the Goldilocks option! It's a matter of figuring out what you want your Chevelle to do, you see. It all depends on what you're looking for.

Now, pinning down the exact production numbers for a '73 Chevelle is a bit tricky; they’re not consistently listed anywhere, making them difficult to track. But generally speaking, they were produced in pretty substantial quantities. It was a popular car, after all – quite a popular model; so you'll find many of them around, unlike some of the rarer classic cars. You should be able to find one, provided you're willing to put in the time and effort to search. Finding one in good condition is more of a challenge than finding one period.

Ah, yes, the pitfalls of owning a classic car. With a '73 Chevelle, you should definitely be on the lookout for rust, especially in areas prone to corrosion, like the body panels and undercarriage; think of it like a toothache, you catch it early or you have a big problem. The braking system and electrical components can also be troublesome after all these years; they need to be regularly maintained. And the suspension; well, that might need some attention too after all this time. Ultimately, it’s just like any old house, you know – you need to check everything carefully before you buy! It's not just about looks, you see.

The value of a '73 Chevelle varies wildly, it really does, depending on its condition, options, and how well it's been maintained. A really nice, meticulously restored car might fetch a pretty penny, while a project car needing tons of work will be much cheaper. Think of it like buying a house - a fixer-upper costs far less than one that's move-in ready. To get a truly accurate assessment, though, check online resources and classic car appraisal guides; they provide detailed information and will give you some very specific values. You should be able to get some fairly accurate numbers to help you make an informed decision.