Imagine this: A pristine 1964 Chevy Impala SS, a true classic, sits forgotten for decades after a single drive. Now, it's up for grabs, and the question is: can it be saved? This Impala, with its rich history and undeniable potential, is currently seeking a new owner who's ready to bring it back to its former glory.
The Impala SS, a name synonymous with power and style, first appeared in 1961 as a performance package costing just $53.80. But here's where it gets controversial... the following years brought significant enhancements, including more potent engines. Big-block engines were a perfect fit for the Impala SS, making these models highly desirable.
By 1964, the Impala SS had become a stand-alone series, with sales exceeding 200,000 units. The hardtop version was particularly popular, accounting for roughly 155,000 of the 536,000 Impala hardtops sold. Convertibles, though pricier, still attracted around 30,000 buyers. The hardtop cost $2,947 (with the Super Sport package), while the convertible started at $3,196.
Interestingly, the Super Sport could be ordered with any engine in the lineup. While a six-cylinder engine might seem out of place in an SS, some buyers opted for it, making those original six-cylinder SS models quite rare. However, the models equipped with bigger engines are obviously more sought after, especially those with big blocks.
The top-of-the-line engines for the 1964 Impala boasted a displacement of 409 cubic inches. The base configuration delivered 409 horsepower, featuring a dual exhaust system and a high-lift cam. The 425-horsepower version, priced at $484, utilized dual four-barrel carburetors.
Now, fast forward to today. This particular 1964 Impala SS is a project car, a time capsule of sorts, that has been sitting since 1982. The seller purchased it, drove it home, and then... well, it was forgotten. The plan was always to restore it, but life got in the way.
Looking at the photos, the car shows obvious signs of corrosion, suggesting extensive restoration work is needed. The seller describes the undersides as "acceptable," noting a few rust areas. However, a thorough inspection on a lift is essential to assess the full extent of the damage.
But here's a silver lining: some of the missing parts, like chrome trim, are still with the car, tucked away in the trunk. The air conditioning components are also present, which means it might be a more complete project than it initially appears.
And this is the part most people miss... The engine under the hood isn't the big-block powerhouse you might be hoping for. Instead, it's a small-block, possibly a 327ci unit with a two-barrel carburetor. The seller isn't entirely sure, so a mechanic's inspection is highly recommended.
In the seller's own words, this Impala is a "project car that has been sitting since it was purchased and driven home." It's a project, no doubt, but as a Super Sport, it deserves a proper restoration.
The small-block engine might disappoint some buyers, but it's still preferable to a six-cylinder or the base Turbo Fire. The 327 offered a good balance of power and performance. Unless you have a 409 engine ready to go, the 327 is a good starting point for the restoration.
This Impala SS is generating significant buzz on eBay, with over 1,500 views in the last 24 hours and 174 people watching the listing. The top bid at the time of writing is $6,100, and with no reserve, it's sure to find a new owner. The car is located in Arkansas, and the buyer will need a trailer to transport it. The listing ends in 3 days, so there's still time to get involved.
What are your thoughts? Do you think this Impala SS is worth the restoration effort? Would you keep the small-block engine, or would you swap in a big block? Share your opinions in the comments below!
