Classic/Antique Car Repair: 1966 chevelle malibu convertible, 1966 chevelle malibu, rear fenders

Question
Hi, I am trying to get an idea about how much to sell my car for, it is an 1966 chevelle malibu convertible, it has a stock 275hp 327 engine and 2 speed power glide transmission from a 1967 chevelle, I rebuilt the engine with all stock GM parts, there is about 25k miles on the rebuilt engine. It has the SS hood, the tires have less then 2k miles on them, the body is straight but has one rust spot under the hood, the paint has a scratch in the hood and the clear coat is peeling on both rear fenders, the convertible top has mildew inside, it does not leak (looks ok from the outside) but should be replaced. The interior is cloth and the front seats are very worn but no holes. I have a clean, clear title. This car is by no means in showroom condition but it runs and drives great. I know most of the cars on your site are European but you seem very knowledgeable and I hoped you could help or maybe knew someone  who could.  The biggest problem I'm having finding prices is that there are very few of the convertibles for sale and the ones that are either need complete restoration or are in mint condition nothing in between like mine. Thank you for any help you can give me.

                                             Larry Ruffle

Answer
When I once worked in a car dealership way back in the time machine, the sales department claimed that there was a fanny for every auto seat ever manufactured, even a pink Gremlin. However determining what a fair market price should be is a tricky business and what I am about to say is based on my experience in the biz and not some magic formula. If the car has all of the original parts, like engine, transmission and differential, then it is more desirable that one that is an assembled group of parts. If the body is not rusted, the car then becomes an easier restoration than one needing a bunch of new panels welded in. That is the good news. What hurts this car is the 2 speed powerglide transmission. A manual is more desirable from a collectors point if view. Yes the car can be converted to manual but this will be evident. Well to cut to the chase, I would, without seeing the car, estimate between 10 and 16 thousand dollars would be the range for an asking price. It sounds like an easy restoration for someone that wants a nice cruiser. And of course you know that in very mint condition the car could exceed 65K.