1961 Chevrolet Impala Convertible

Description

We sell hundreds of cars each year and have sold thousands since we started, but this 1961 Chevrolet Impala convertible is rare enough that this is the first one we've had. Finished in traditional Ermine White with a red interior, it's a sparkling example of Chevy's best from the early '60s. If you like your full-sized cruisers with a great sense of style, you'll want to spend some time examining this Imp carefully.

The restoration is a few years old and we don't believe this car was restored to collect trophies, although it's quite correct and very attractive. Code 936 is Ermine White and that's how this car was built, so that's what went on during the restoration. White can be tricky, but this one has the right glow, and the bodywork underneath is straight enough that they could have gone with black and had equally great results. Someone knew what they were doing here. There are, of course, a few signs of use, but if you pull into the local cruise night with this car, people are going to sit up and notice, because this is an A-list celebrity car. The 1961's styling was a little more restrained, but the sweeping side trim with red insert, the little ornaments atop the fenders, and the bumpers that tip up on the ends give it a lot of flash and all the brightwork is nicely restored. We especially like the forward-mounted mirrors, and, of course, as an Impala, there are six lights out back along with a set of interesting bumper guards that highlight all three pairs.

The trim tag says code 874 Red and Ivory upholstery was the original spec, so you'll find that inside, too. There's some age, which is unavoidable in a convertible with red upholstery, but it's quite correct and beautifully done. The combination of materials and patterns make early '60s Chevys stand out, and there's no question this is the top-of-the-line model. The two-tone steering wheel has a jet-inspired look, as do the round gauges and sliding heater controls. All the gauges are functional too, even if they are original. The original AM radio lives in the dash, but it's no longer operational so now would be a great time for an invisible upgrade and seat belts have been added for safety. A white power convertible top fits extremely well and if you want to go on a road trip, the neatly trimmed trunk offers all the room you'll ever need.

While the 348s get all the attention, the sweet-running 283 cubic inch V8 in this Impala is a smarter choice. Smooth, torquey, and utterly reliable, it's perfect for a car that's going to be driven. It's properly dressed in Chevy Orange with beautiful Chevrolet script valve covers, and aside from little stuff like the hoses and a few bolts, it's quite authentic, from the big air cleaner to the generator making the electricity. It ticks over in near silence and provides the kind of effortless performance on the open road that made these cars famous. A 2-speed PowerGlide automatic transmission is unobtrusive, and it just floats along under all conditions seemingly indifferent to the world around it. It's even got a correct single exhaust system which has a modest hum but not a cackling exhaust, which just wouldn't be appropriate. Correct Chevy wheels and spinner hubcaps look great inside a recent set of 8.00-14 wide whites.

These are A-list collectables, arguably appreciating faster than the tri-fives at this point. For glamour, performance, and comfort, it's hard to beat the all-around greatness of Chevy's Impala. Call today!