Chevrolet Impala: One of the All-Time Muscle Car Greats

The Impala is a full-size car produced by Chevrolet for model years 1958-1985, 1994-1996, and 2000-onward. A mid-sized variant has been in production since the year 2000. What makes these cars especially interesting is the fact that the 1958-1969 Impala SS essentially kick-started the muscle car era.

Today, the Impala SS is held in the highest regard by classic car aficionados everywhere. When outfitted with modern features, such as the 65 impala air ride systems installed by a top-notch classic car restoration service in Orange County, the Impala SS achieves an unparalleled mix of utility and style.

In this article, we'll take a look into Impala's long history, as well as touch on where the Impala was first produced and when Impala changed its body styles. Read on to learn more about this quintessential muscle car.

Is the Impala a muscle car?

Not only is Impala a muscle car, it's the granddaddy of muscle cars. It began as Chevrolet's top-of-the-line model, and rapidly became a synonym for superior performance during the early 1960s when it introduced Chevrolet's vaunted "SS" (Super Sport) brand of performance.

In fact, although the Impala obviously couldn't compare to smaller and lighter automobiles, it still stands tall as the performance vehicle of choice for people who prefer large cars.

That being said, the mid-sized Impalas that have been in production since early 2000s have stepped away from the classic Impala's signature large-car look. While these newer models are of extremely high quality, it'd be a stretch to call them muscle cars due to their decreased size and more modern appearance.

What was the first year for Chevy Impala SS?

The Impala was initially released as the top option for Chevrolet's Bel Air line, and came in both hardtop and convertible variants. It added luxury interiors, special trim, and sported "curves where previously there were lines". Performance was always a focus for the Impala, and the first model could be optioned with up to a 348 V8 putting out 315 bhp.

Bel Air Impala was so successful and universally praised, that it resulted in Chevrolet making the Impala line a separate option for the following year. The Impala SS was first introduced in 1960. Its great success resulted in the SS badge becoming a high-performance signature for Chevrolet.

Today, the Impala SS is one of the all-time favorite lineups in the world of classic car ownership and restoration. Buying one, even if you have to go to the trouble of importing it, is one of the best decisions a muscle car enthusiast can make.

What was the last year of the Chevy Impala SS?

Chevrolet Impala SS first stopped production in 1969. During this year, the only Impala SS model available was Z24 that came in the Sport Coupe, convertible, and Custom Coupe forms. Although the Z24 sold well, and the availability of powerful V8 engines didn't diminish, the year 1970 would still see no new Impala SS models.

The Impala SS line was later revived in 1994, but this line no longer had the signature muscle car look and only really shared the name with its predecessor.

Where can you get dependable 65 impala air ride installation in Orange County?

As superb as the Impala SS line is, even the 1969 Impalas are turning 50 these days. Unless you're buying a 100% restored car, it's probably going to need some restoration work and to have some parts replaced to truly be in tiptop shape.

Chimera Motors is the best classic car restoration, repair, maintenance, and painting company in Orange County. There's no better feeling than cruising alongside the Huntington Beach Pier in a fully restored 1965 Impala SS that's been outfitted with state-of-the-art air suspension systems. We'd be happy to make that a reality for you.

Give us a call today, or visit us at our workshop so that we may attend to your Impala's needs.