Hello and Thank You

[NastyRat454]

I have owned my 78 Malibu G/Body since 1989. Yes, I know that it is not a Regal, but I had to become a member to let the other users of this site know how much they have helped with all the information that has been provided in the forums. I was recently given an '81 Grand Prix from my parents to give to my 14 year old daughter. Well, it has a factory Astroroof, 3.8 liter, and is really decent shape. So, I starting googling and found this site. All I can say is "Thank you all for the provided information." I know it isn't a Grand National or a Hurst/Olds, but the information that you have provided with identification, parts web sites, etc. has been great. I hope to really Trick this car out for her by next summer, because as of now she thinks it is a BEATER. I try to tell her that the '78 Malibu used to be one before the transformation, (she's itching to drive/race the street car and give up her Jr. Dragster), but it just won't sink in. So I am figuring with a Olds rear wing, Buick T-style steering wheel, some nice rims and skins, and TLC, she will see what the car can become.

If anyone is interested there are vids/pics of the cars on Youtube under Nasty Rat Racing.

And just a note to all: Grand Nationals, Regals, Hurst/Olds, Monte's and Malibu's are all cool in their own way, but great in one. They can all be made to go REAL FAST-REAL CHEAP. I started with the Malibu running 14's. Now it runs 11.40's off the bottle (@6000' adjusted alt.) with full interior, stereo system and exhaust. Just did some work to suspension and the drivetrain/rearend. Other than having to use race gas, it is fully streetable.
Once again, thanks for all your help.


Dave Newton
Nasty Rat Racing

 

[charlief1]

Dave, come visit the B4black section and we can help you pump the NA 3.8 up some. glad to have another one out there. Welcome aboard.

 

[mat231v6]

welcome to turbo buick.

 

[supercrackerbox]

FWIW, I have nothing but love for the Malibus. It was only by chance that I got into Regals as an impulse buy after having an '80 Malibu coupe sold out from under me. Could have been a sweet car too- Black, white vinyl top, all white split bench interior, with power windows. I've never seen another like it. I found a '78 Sport Coupe a week later and took it as a consolation prize, and it became my favorite of all the cars I ever owned.

I do miss that car.