1963 Chevrolet Impala SS

Description

Those of you wishing for the ultimate '60s Impala need look no farther than this slick 1963 SS convertible, and yes, it's a real SS. A great-running 283 provides the power and the color combination is just gorgeous. Yeah, this is definitely the one you've been waiting for.

Code 936 Ermine White is arguably the best color on these cars, perfectly capturing the dual-sided nature of the beast and giving it an elegant yet sporting look. White also emphasizes the length of the car, making it imposing and substantial, while at the same time showing off bodywork that will be the envy of the guys parked around you at any show. The clean lines of the Imp are highlighted by dramatic light and dark areas as the light plays across the body, leaving no secret as to why these cars were legendary in their own time. The original engine-turned trim is in excellent shape, as is the rest of the bright work, with the front and rear bumpers wearing bright chrome that looks fantastic against the glossy white paint. If you want to get noticed, few cars can do it better than a big white ragtop that sounds like this one.

We know this one is a real-deal SS because of the cowl tag, which shows a code 879 red bucket seat interior, which, as experts will tell you, was only available on SS models. The long-grain vinyl looks a lot more upscale than you'd expect from the man-made material, and that's largely attributable to the quality of the work. Note the detailed patterns that defined Chevy's top-of-the-line machines, particularly the button-tufted door panels. This car has had extensive interior work in the very recent past and shows quite well, with nicely fitted bucket seats, a wide instrument panel, and the elegant steering wheel. Engine-turned appliques on the dash and center console tie it together with the exterior, and a white cue ball on the shifter supervises the PowerGlide underneath. A recent white power convertible top and matching red boot were ordered up just for this car, and the trunk carries a full-sized spare for emergencies.

Chevy's 283 cubic inch was a very popular choice in 1963, potent enough to be fun but also reliable and fairly economical to own. The powerplant under the hood of this Impala looks quite stock, including the single-snorkel air cleaner and stamped valve covers, all of which are painted, not chrome plated, so it has an OEM look. Chevy Orange on the block and heads continues the factory vibe, and both the intake and carburetor are factory-issue. We don't have a lot of information on the engine build, but it runs superbly, doesn't smoke or make scary noises (except the good kind!), and despite its performance, it's happy to trundle along in traffic without getting cranky. A fresh dual exhaust system provides a wonderful V8 soundtrack, and the rest of the chassis is highly detailed and very authentic-looking. Factory steel wheels carry SS hubcaps and proper 7.50-14 whitewalls that are straight out of the 1960s.

The right car, the right color, the right engine. What are you waiting for, Impala fans? This is it, so call today!