It is a question that often ignites debate among enthusiasts; What is the difference between a restored and a refurbished classic? That is the one posed by this 1960 Chevrolet Impala Sport Coupe. It presents beautifully following a refresh in 2018, but into which category does it fall? The only thing that the Impala seems to need is a new home, with the seller listing it here on eBay in Miami, Florida. They set their price at $61,500 with the option to make an offer.

Previously a range-topping option within the Bel Air range, the Impala became a standalone model in 1959. This generation only remained in production for two years, and especially in Sport Coupe form, I feel that it is one of the most attractive cars to roll off an American production line during this period. The “bubble-top” roof, enormous expanses of glass, and the horizontal rear fins all combine to guarantee that the Impala draws crowds wherever it goes. The history of this car is relatively well known, having undergone a high-end refurbishment in California in 2018. That brings us to the first factor that makes me believe that it shouldn’t be considered restored. The current paint combination of Suntan Copper and Ermine White is period-correct, but the Body Tag confirms that it isn’t original. It reveals that the first owner selected Code 915A Tasco Turquoise and Ermine White. Regardless of your opinion on that factor, it is seemingly impossible to criticize the car’s condition. The paint shine is far better than Chevrolet achieved in 1960, reflecting its surroundings like a mirror. The panels are laser-straight, with the tight and consistent gaps suggesting that the builder focused on fine details. The seller supplies an excellent selection of shots that confirm that while the floors and frame wear a protective undercoat, it is rust-free and rock-solid. The trim and glass are in as-new condition, and the whitewalls represent the perfect finishing touch to the exterior.

Lifting the hood reveals a 348ci V8, backed by a four-speed manual transmission. Interestingly for a vehicle of this type, it doesn’t feature power assistance for the steering or brakes. This aspect of the Impala leaves us begging for information. The 348 was available in 1960, although it is unclear if that is what the original owner selected when ordering this car. The other unknown is the engine’s specifications. If it is period-correct, it would place at least 250hp and 355 ft/lbs of torque at the driver’s disposal. More powerful versions of this motor were available, with the range-topping 348 generating 335hp and 362 ft/lbs. The seller supplies no information regarding the vehicle’s mechanical health, but the spotless presentation and the car’s history suggest that the news should be positive.

The builder continued the exterior paint theme when selecting and installing this Impala’s interior trim. They chose Copper vinyl and cloth, which brings us to the second major variation that makes me consider it refurbished. The Tag shows Code 852 which Chevrolet used for Turquoise vinyl. Beyond those changes, this interior has plenty of positive attributes. The upholstery is free from marks and imperfections, and the painted surfaces are as impressive as the exterior. There is no carpet or wheel wear, and this Impala retains its factory radio. It also features power windows, which I believe are a later addition.

There is no arguing the fact that this 1960 Chevrolet Impala Sport Coupe presents beautifully, while its engine and transmission combination guarantees respectable performance. Placing a value on a car of this caliber is challenging because I believe that the changes, though period-correct, mean that it can’t be considered a faithful restoration. I located a previous listing for this Impala from earlier this year where it failed to sell with the bidding at $45,000. Interestingly, Hagerty and NADA offer massively different values, muddying the water further. That leaves two questions swinging in the breeze. The first is whether you would consider this Impala restored or refurbished. The second is how much you might be willing to pay to park this gem in your driveway. So, it’s over to you.