The Chevrolet Impala was officially launched as a 1958 model year vehicle, although the first generation lasted for just that one year, and only 3 years later when the SS package first became available on the Impala in 1961 the car was already on its third body style.  A lot of early Impalas have gone the way of low riders and resto-mods, but if you’re looking for an original example that hasn’t been chopped up and modified this 1963 Chevrolet Impala SS might be a good car for you.  Located in Asheville, North Carolina, it can be found here on eBay with a current bid of $12,900.  At the time of this writing, there are about 3 days left on the auction and so far the reserve has not been met.

Every time I see a third-generation Impala, my mind instinctively goes back to 1978 when I saw the Cheech And Chong film Up In Smoke.  Although the duos Impala in that film was a 1964 model, which can be seen here, I’m sure it helped get the ball rolling for the mass appeal and cool factor of the early Impala.  Although they may be a little boxy-looking, the third generations have a pretty mean-looking stance in bone stock form.  Add a resto-mod mindset to the package and the looks can be downright menacing!  Fortunately, the Impala being offered here is mostly original and complete, so there are plenty of options depending on what the next owner has in mind.

One thing that is not original to this car is the engine.  Gone is the original motor, and under the hood now is a 350 cubic inch V8 which is said to run well.  There’s also a manual transmission, but the car is currently not driveable due to the engine and tranny not being connected together.  I’m certainly not the world’s greatest mechanic, but this doesn’t seem like a really major issue to contend with, and I’m not sure why the seller didn’t enlist the help of a friend and spend a weekend addressing it.  But it is what it is and hopefully isn’t masking something bigger.

Inside, things aren’t looking that bad, and the bucket seats are there which I believe were only available with the SS option in 1963.  Maybe some of our readers can confirm or deny this, but if that’s the case, if the seats are indeed original it’s a good sign that this is a true SS car.  Granted, the car could use attention, including some bodywork, floor pans, and rewiring.  The sale does include a new trunk lid, a new fender, and new original floor mats.  The subject of rust is not specifically addressed, and there are no photos of the underside of the car provided, so I’d probably inquire about the frame and components underneath before I made a commitment.  Or better yet, go see the car in person so you’ll know upfront exactly what you’re getting into.

This is one of those cars that seems like it could be made into an acceptable driver without a whole lot of work, but to get it back into tip-top shape would take some time and money.  What are your thoughts on this 1963 Chevrolet Impala SS?