In proposing a car smaller than the Impala model, GM intended to recreate the alchemy between the public and the Chevrolet Bel Air that had been created between 1955 and 1957. The Chevelle had the task of winning back the public. who had enjoyed the compact Chevrolet. The Malibu SS version was produced for only two years, from 1964 to 1965: at first it had a 283ci V8 engine, but GM soon added a new, more powerful 327ci V8 that developed around 300 horsepower. The Malibu SS was produced in coupé and convertible configurations.