1958 Chevrolet Impala

Description

No longer living in the shadow of their Tri-Five siblings, the 1958 Impalas, particularly convertibles like this, are now Grade-A collector cars. With striking styling and a one-year-only look that was more Cadillac than garden-variety transportation, the '58 Impalas have definitely arrived. And when they're wearing an unusual color and pack a few smart upgrades, well, it's easy to see why collectors are fighting over the chance to own them.

We'll be straight with you and let you know up front that this is not a stock Impala, although you would never know by looking at it. The soft blue paint is a little lighter than the original Cashmere Blue, but the pastel hue looks absolutely right on the 1950s sheetmetal and you'd better believe it stands out among its more ordinary-looking siblings. Fit and finish are superb, with lots of attention paid to getting the fit exactly right, because the Impala's trim is unforgiving in that regard. The shine comes from two-stage urethane, and it'll look this good for years to come with only modest care. Most of the trim, which is insanely expensive to restore on these cars, is fresh, including the intricate grille and wonderful stainless side spear that stretches from nose to tail, highlighting the Impala's impressive size. You'll also note that it carries accessory fender skirts that visually lower the car and out back there are triple taillights, an Impala trademark that started this year.

The Impala's interior was always a glamorous place to be, but the gorgeous light blue leather it wears today is truly spectacular. The dash was fully restored to factory specs, including the wide speedometer and striking two-tone steering wheel, but a few modern upgrades were added so skillfully that they blend in with the original components. Note the tilt steering column, the under-dash vents for the modern A/C system, and the elegant and simple console in the center that almost looks like the factory put it there. Other features include power windows and an AM/FM/CD stereo that fills the vintage ragtop with sound at cruising speed. There are also custom-crafted door panels and wonderful fitted carpets that give the car a plush feel without erasing its 1950s style. An expensive-looking white power convertible top offers protection from the elements and the giant trunk is upholstered in black and carries a matching full-sized spare.

Don't worry, there's still a small block Chevy under the hood, although it takes the form of a fresh 350 cubic inch crate motor. With a Holley carburetor and a few traditional dress-up pieces, it makes a neat fit in the big Imp's engine bay. Everything around the engine is new, too, including the aluminum radiator, power brakes with dual reservoir master cylinder, and the exhaust system, which uses glasspack-style mufflers for an awesome 1950s sound. The wiring and plumbing was very neatly tucked out of sight and obviously everything was finished to the same high standards as the bodywork. Backed by a 700R4 4-speed automatic overdrive transmission, this Impala is an effortless long-distance cruiser, and with disc brakes up front, stopping isn't a problem, either. The original rear end is out back and the entire chassis was restored although it shows a few signs of use today. It sits right and with wide whitewall radials on the original wheels and hubcaps, it has a very authentic look.

You've undoubtedly seen the meteoric rise in prices on '58 Impalas, but given the level of work in this one, it might even be considered a bit of a bargain. Call today!