1966 Chevrolet Impala

Description

The Impala was always Chevy's performance flagship, available with any number of V8 powerplants to make them just about anything a buyer wanted. This one packs a sweet-running 327 cubic inch V8 and an automatic transmission, perfect for the Imp's luxury-oriented mission and a lot of fun even today.

Finished in correct Madeira Maroon, this big two-door hardtop looks fairly unassuming at first glance, and that's exactly the way they liked it back in 1966. Don't get me wrong, it's beautifully finished with nicely applied paint that accentuates the big Impala's no-nonsense look. Those massive quarters are straight, the big doors fit well, and the deck lid fits right, which is especially critical when all those taillights need to line up just so. Beautiful Impala emblems on the front fenders and the long strip of stainless trim keep ornamentation to a minimum, but again, this car was a wolf in sheep's clothing, so keeping it low-profile was the name of the game. It also looks like someone invested heavily in the trim, with bright chrome and stainless that shows well and accentuates the maroon paint beautifully.

A bench seat is what full-sized luxury was all about, and the interior of the Impala feels positively massive because of it. Beautifully restored with new seat covers, carpets, door panels, and other soft parts, it definitely conveys a sense of luxury and performance all at a glance. A simple, easy-to-read gauge cluster looks pretty original, and it's complemented by a set of auxiliary dials hanging underneath. A Pioneer AM/FM/CD stereo head unit replaces the original AM unit, but the installation is clean and no panels had to be cut to make it work. The back seat will carry three of your best friends and with that massive trunk out back, all their gear is welcome to come along, too.

Theoretically, you could get a six-cylinder Impala, but fortunately for you, this one packs a strong-running 327 cubic inch V8. It looks pretty stock and proudly shows off its performance heritage with a minimum of flash and a focus on horsepower, complete with a Holley carburetor and upgraded Edelbrock intake. A chrome air cleaner and matching valve covers dress it up a bit and there's period Chevy Orange paint clinging to the block. It does include power steering, which is probably mandatory with that big lump of cast iron over the front wheels, and with a pair of glasspack mufflers underneath, it sounds spectacular. The 3-speed TH350 automatic snaps to attention when you push the pedal and there's a stout 10-bolt rear end out back. The undercarriage is in very good condition thanks to a lifetime in a warm climate, although it is no longer detailed for show. Handsome Cragar wheels and staggered 245/60/15 front and 275/60/15 rear Uniroyal radials give it just a bit of rake for a performance look.

Full-sized cars like the Impala are perennial favorites, and when they run this well and look this good, it's easy to see why. Offering big car comfort and space with just a hint of attitude, all at a bargain price, this Impala hits all the right notes. Call today!