HIGHLIGHTS
- Rare Bubble Top Sports Coupe
- Original and unrestored example
- W348 big block V8 engine
- Incredibly well presented
- Full leather Interior
- Dry stored
- One owner for 37 years
THE APPEAL
One of Chevrolet’s most desirable models amongst enthusiasts . The sleek bubble top roof, design lines that accentuate the car’s body and more chrome trim than you could shake a stick at. These cars are favoured by enthusiasts and collectors all over the world for the same reason.
What makes these cars so great is that they’re bursting with style which is something that appears to be lost in some modern day cars. Jump into the driver’s seat and you’re instantly propelled back to the era of jukeboxes, leather jackets, boot cut jeans and slicked back hair. I couldn’t personally think of anything more fantastic.
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
- Registered in 1961
- Recent expenditure
- Previous MOTs
- Had a repaint from its original Fawn Beige colour
Unfortunately, this Chevrolet Impala is light on the paperwork front, but what we do know is that it was owned for 37 years by one person where the car was garage stored and well looked after.
We are told that anything the car needed, it got and it spent its time being very well looked after.
We are told that anything the car needed, it got and it spent its time being very well looked after.
THE INTERIOR
- Immaculately presented original interior cabin.
- Red vinyl interior looks fantastic.
- Frameless design
- 60’s time machine
The upholstery inside the vehicle is said to be original with it looking exceptionally well cared for throughout. The seats are as bright and vibrant as one would expect from a 60s era car and show no signs of wear either on the front bench or the rear.
The same is to be said when it comes to the door cards, carpets and headlining which reflects a car that has been well loved for throughout its life. There are no wear marks on the carpets which still look as fluffy as one would expect they did when Chevy produced the car in ’61.
Upfront, the dashboard, steering wheel and instrument binnacle are free from scratches and imperfections. The space age dashboard features a vast amount of chrome controls that are all still looking really bright and lustrous.
Overall, the interior is a beautiful place to spend time and hours can be spent soaking up its oodles of character. Its frameless design gives the sense of an open airy space in what is otherwise a fairly large car, even by today’s standards.
THE EXTERIOR
- Iconic design
- Chromework looks fantastic
- Bodywork and paint in good condition
- Unrestored example
To some, the Chevrolet Impala is the king when it comes to all American vehicles and there is no denying that this car is certainly loved by those who are fans of all things muscle and low rider communities. Ironically, it’s a small car in comparison to it’s competitors of the time but if there is one thing we can all agree on, it is that it looks fantastic from all angles and like any fine wine, has aged exceptionally well.
The red paint is in great condition for its age and still really gleams in the sun, reflecting beautifully showing little to no obvious imperfections. It’s not concours standard with there being some imperfections to note but, as a whole, we think you’ll struggle to do much better. If we were being really fussy then the boot, would benefit from a respray.
The brightwork located around the vehicle is a compliment to how well looked after this vehicle has been. A great example of this is that the lenses on the headlights and taillights are still clear and show no signs of yellowing or fading which is usually caused by damage from the sun. The bumpers, door handles and badges located around the vehicle look great with no signs of pitting or corrosion that we noted.
It is said that the car has never been welded and that the underside is in exemplary condition with no corrosion to report.
THE MECHANICS
- W 348 Big Block V8 Engine
- Recent suspension work including new bushings
- Runs and drives well
Sitting spaciously under the bonnet, is the formidable W 348 Big Block engine which is arguably one of the more desirable engines after the larger 409 big block. The V8 engine rumbles effortlessly on idle and sounds even better when under load and produces 250HP which, at the time, was a fair amount.
The engine pushes the car down the road with absolute ease and works harmoniously with the 3 speed automatic gearbox which is smooth and changes between gears without fault or hesitation.
The suspension is smooth and irons out the bigger bumps and undulations without any fuss. The vendor tells us that prior to purchasing the car, the suspension had undergone some work to replace any worn parts and bushes.
The vendor also notes that the steering is tight, feels great and responds well to all inputs. The car previously was used as intended, travelling throughout Europe spending a large majority of its time doing what it was intended to do, cruising motorways and soaking up the surroundings.
SUMMARY
As far as American imports go, this is a perfect base that needs very little work to get it looking in showroom condition. As expected, there are a few imperfections on the bodywork but nothing untoward to report.
If you’re looking for a car that you can hop in, soak up the sound of the gnarly V8 engine whilst basking in pure 60’s design and elegance, then one needs to look no further. Guaranteed to turn heads where ever you should find yourself.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only. Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.
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