https://www.ebay.com/itm/1976-Checker-Marathon/232689527551?hash=item362d606aff:g:HJAAAOSwzK1anx02&vxp=mtr

Original Blue Plate California Car

In 1976, you could get a Chevy straight 6 or the optional Chevy small-block V8. This car has the 250cid Chevy Straight six. This car is also equipped with a TH400 Transmission, and a Dana 44 rear axle (pretty much bulletproof!)

In 1976, Checker built 4,790 cars. Only 400 were civilian models (i.e. Marathons, like this one). This Car was originally purchased in California and has always lived in SoCal (Long Beach/San Diego).

According to the title and DMV printout, it appears that the 71k miles on the odometer are the original miles (see photos). The Car comes with loads of options including: Automatic transmission, Power brakes (disc front/drum rear), Power steering, aftermarket stereo, six sun visors (front windshield, and side windows), Full Stainless steel wheel covers (in great shape), and A/C. The A/C compressor spins and the fan blows, but it’s been too cold here to know if the A/C is actually working

Robin’s Egg blue looks to have been the original color (visible under the hood). It was repainted baby blue some time ago. The car has minor rust, clear coat is peeling, there is some surface rust on the trunk (see photos). The roof has a gorgeous patina where the original blue is showing through the newer baby blue. Its a good look.

The interior appears to be all original except for the stereo. The front and rear seats both need bottoms reupholstered, but the foam appears to be in great shape. A period-correct seat cover will be included with the car. All 4 Door panels and carpet look great.

Tires have great tread, but may need replacement based on their age

The car starts and runs well. The brakes have plenty of pressure and feel good. Transmission shifts as it should. The Brand New carburetor needs to be dialed in, as the car stalls when cold.

I bought the car as a project from a local auction. My thoughts were to pull the straight six, and swap in the dreaded LS with a turbo.. the rest of the drive train (th400, dana 44) would be more than able to handle a nice mild build. My buddy’s said I was crazy, and suggested I try selling it before modifying it… so here it is.

Buyer will get clean and clear CA title, along with all auction paperwork, so registering it should not be a problem.

CA buyers – this car is NOT smog exempt, and will need to be smogged before it can be registered in California. I have not attempted to smog it. Smog will be the responsibility of the high bidder.

Checkers are thought of as New York City’s iconic cab. Most of these cars were beat up and thrashed after years of hard use. They are tough to find in good shape, even tougher to find with low miles. Production numbers were always low, and the privately-owned cars (non-cab Checkers) tend to be in much better shape than actual cabs (for obvious reasons). This is one of 400 produced.. one of who-knows-how-many that were blue.

NO RESERVE! Vehicle is sold where is, as-is. High bidder is responsible for transportation of vehicle after auction ends. I can hold the car for up to 2 weeks while shipping is arranged.