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This 1959 Chevrolet Impala Hopes You Like Small Blocks, Needs Minor TLC

1959 Chevrolet Impala 29 photos
Photo: eBay seller i_jus_mite_shoot187
1959 Chevrolet Impala1959 Chevrolet Impala1959 Chevrolet Impala1959 Chevrolet Impala1959 Chevrolet Impala1959 Chevrolet Impala1959 Chevrolet Impala1959 Chevrolet Impala1959 Chevrolet Impala1959 Chevrolet Impala1959 Chevrolet Impala1959 Chevrolet Impala1959 Chevrolet Impala1959 Chevrolet Impala1959 Chevrolet Impala1959 Chevrolet Impala1959 Chevrolet Impala1959 Chevrolet Impala1959 Chevrolet Impala1959 Chevrolet Impala1959 Chevrolet Impala1959 Chevrolet Impala1959 Chevrolet Impala1959 Chevrolet Impala1959 Chevrolet Impala1959 Chevrolet Impala1959 Chevrolet Impala1959 Chevrolet Impala
Many people call the 1959 release the "first-generation Impala," and they're not entirely wrong. The Impala adventure started in 1956 when Chevrolet unveiled the first prototype, but the production model was finalized two years later.
The first Impala, also known as the "first-generation Impala," came to be in 1958, albeit it was only offered as a hardtop and a convertible in the Bel Air lineup.

The Impala gained series status a year later, and Chevrolet called the 1959 model the "second-generation Impala." However, it was the first time the Impala could be had separately from the Bel Air, despite the car still sharing the styling, the engine, and many parts with the rest of the Chevy full-size lineup.

A 1959 Impala landed on eBay a few days ago, and while I'm certain most people are here hoping for an all-original model, this example exhibits a major change under the hood.

The top choice on the 1959 Impala was the 348. It was a fantastic choice for a full-size Chevy, and after its debut in 1958, the 348 was already a mature engine delivering a great amount of power that perfectly matched Impala's developing legacy.

However, eBay seller i_jus_mite_shoot187 says the original engine is no longer under the hood. A 327 small-block unit is now in charge of propelling the car – the 327 was introduced a few years later to replace the more powerful versions of the 283. The 327 was available in multiple power configurations, including 250 and 300 horsepower, rapidly becoming one of the Impala lineup's top choices.

This 327 has already been rebuilt and is now paired with a 350 Turbo transmission. It starts, runs, and drives properly, though it is no surprise, considering the work it has already received.

The Impala also exhibits other refreshes, including a replaced interior. The cabin looks great, but if you're interested in the original seats and upholstery, you won't get them on this Impala.

The body looks good, but the paint shows its age. It has bubbles and rust spots, and the chances are it's not the original coating sprayed by Chevrolet before rolling off the assembly lines. You'll want a full respray if you're interested in a tip-top shape, but your priority should be dealing with the rust issues on the body.

The Impala doesn't sell cheaply, despite no longer having the original powertrain and cabin. The owner expects to get $33,000 for the vehicle, but they also enabled the Make Offer button to listen to other offers. The car is currently sitting in Charlotte, North Carolina, and it's ready for the road, meaning that you can jump behind the wheel and drive it home if you don't live far from this location.
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About the author: Bogdan Popa
Bogdan Popa profile photo

Bogdan keeps an eye on how technology is taking over the car world. His long-term goals are buying an 18-wheeler because he needs more space for his kid’s toys, and convincing Google and Apple that Android Auto and CarPlay deserve at least as much attention as their phones.
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