I think there's a difference in classification between 'original' and 'original restored'. Original is an unmolested car with only consumables replaced - belts, oils, filters, tires and even starters, alternators & water pumps. Those parts do tend to wear out and need replacement. Whether it be a Malibu or SS if it's a 'restored original' it's restored (with parts available) to 'original' condition, i.e. original Drivetrain, colors, interior, tire-type and even correctly dated long ago replaced parts like starters/alternators/water pumps. A clone/tribute/whatever the politically correct name used, is (to me) a personal custom built to something it wasn't originally.
My ex-GR8PMKN was a custom - built to something it wasn't originally. It just happened to start out as a SS but could have just as easily started as a Malibu and achieved the same results. Had it started as a Malibu I wouldn't have used SS badging however. I agree, built what you want but I do find it interesting that more and more signature lines are including "SS (clone)". It's like saying, "It's an SS (but not really)," or putting on a resume, "High School Graduate (GED)." Why even bother? Either it is or it isn't. Unfortunately, many 'cloned' Malibus aren't built to even SS specifications - many times just badges - and that isn't even a clone in my opinion. More unfortunately, the clones that are built to SS specs are often sold by unscrupulous people as real and get top dollar as real SS cars or someone will buy a known clone and resell it as a real SS car to some unsuspecting soul. Dale McIntosh -----Original Message----- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Ron Sparks Sent: Thursday, June 09, 2005 8:52 PM To: 'The Chevelle Mailing List' Subject: RE: [Chevelle-list] Where will it end?? He's something to ponder: While restoring a "true" SS with repoduction parts imported from Asia (or some other country), is is still an all original car? That goes for adding headers and an intake. See it all the time on Ebay.I mean we're trying to pass it off as something it really isn't since it is not an all original car. Just poking a little fun.. Ron -----Original Message----- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Krister Meister Sent: Wednesday, June 08, 2005 8:46 AM To: The Chevelle Mailing List Cc: Chevelle-list@chevelles.net; [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Re: [Chevelle-list] Where will it end?? I am 40, own a numbers '66 SS and wanted the real thing. Personally there's satisfaction knowing it's real, it has survived, it's not a copy, agree that clones are a dime a dozen and satisfaction comes by being able to tell someone it's real and not a "look alike". I also agree with "it's your car, money, time etc. do what ever you want" philosophy. However, clones being misrepresented are the real issue and it goes along with the fake document's etc that are produced. If its a clone, show it and sell it as a clone. It absolutely gets me when is see out right misrepresentation. A true US built SS is in the VIN from '64 - '68 and yes there are measures even here to make sure things have not been tampered with on any year. After '68 the SS was on option and can only be proven with an original build sheet, original invoice or protector plate (exception in '72 the VIN had engine size and 454 was available only on for an SS). Adding all the SS options to a regular Malibu doesn't make it an SS - basic question comes down to "what was it when it left the factory - not what it looks like today. Lets enjoy our cars and keep the hobby honest. Just checking out eBay for stuff I need for my 69 and ran across someone selling build sheets! It is not bad enogh that everyone and their brother is building clones, but this should be against the law. They will even ''age'' it for you. http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=455364623 9&category=10076 I am curious, how many of you would consider building a clone and what is your age? I ask age because it seems like younger guys who build clones see nothing wrong with it. Personally I think it takes away from original cars, I mean you go to a show to see rare stuff and it takes the fun out of it. I would much rather look at a dozen Malibus and one SS versus a dozen fakes. I would bet there are more ''SS'' cars on the road now then there ever were built originally!! Sorry to vent, but I had to get this out of my system.