Classic Car of the Week: Chevrolet Impala (1958)

My pick this week is the Chevrolet Impala.


The Chevrolet Impala evolved from the Bel Air range and was the first hardtop convertible of the series. Styled for the time, the Impala pandered to the fashion for longer, lower and wider automobiles. Original models were in a similar style to the Bel Air models but took on so called 'Sculpuramic styling' which defined crisper lines and sculptured rear fenders. Dual headlamps were added as well as three - yes three - tail lights.

More after the jump...


In its first year, the Impala represented 15% of Chevrolet's production accounting for over 50,000 convertible models were sold and 125,000 coupes. Consumers were offered a choice in engines including the new 348 CID w-series turbo which was capable of producing up to 315HP.



The Impala was available to the consumer at around $2600 and options included power steering and brakes, air conditioning and air suspension.

Vital Statistics
Wheelbase 2.9m
Length 5.3m
Width 1.9m
Height 1.4m
Engine 235 cu in (3.9L) Blue Flame I9
283 cu in (4.6L) Turbo Fire V8
346 cu in (5.7L) W-series Turbo    Thrust V8
Gross HP 250-315HP
Transmission 3-speed manual
3-speed with overdrive manual
Turboglide automatic
2-speed Powerglide automatic

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This article is intended for entertainment purposes only.

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