That meant that the Malibu required a lot of attention. The whole car was in rough shape, the original 6 cylinders had a cracked block, and the interior was a disaster. Fortunately, this left the door open for them to build the 1981 Malibu as they saw fit.
They tore the 1981 Malibu apart and replaced its heart with a small block 383 stroker, a 9-inch rear end with 4.10 gears, and a built TH350 with a 3500 rpm stall. Of course, this Malibu would need to stop quicker as well, so the Cuomos converted to 4 wheel disc brakes to support these power changes.
The exterior of the Malibu was completely reworked at a friend’s body shop, being sanded, patched, and primed for new paint. Anthony’s son wanted to have the 1981 Malibu painted in 2000 Corvette blue, but his friend felt it would be too plain as one color, so he added his own flair with ghost flames and a body stripe. The interior gained reupholstered seats and refreshed door panels and trim, which the trio dyed black to tie the Malibu interior together.
Currently, the 1981 Malibu is in the stages of being totally upgraded. The 383 stroker is being replaced by a 454 bored .60 over, running a fuel injection system as well as nitrous oxide. The TH350 is being retired in favor of a built reverse valve body TH400 with a trans brake and 4000 rpm stall.
These upgrades are being undertaken to surprise Anthony’s son when he returns from his current Air Force deployment in mid-March 2020. He knows that his father is up to something, but Anthony hopes to keep it under wraps for as long as possible.
“I built it together with my youngest son and made MANY wonderful memories! …And it’s FAST!”
This is one serious drag Malibu, with the new power plant upgrades it’s sure to shred tires at the drag strip. Hopefully, it doesn’t break any axles.
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