Wearing Regal Black paint endows this 1966 Chevrolet Impala Convertible with a tough yet classy appearance. The fact that it is an SS 396 means that it also possesses the power and performance to back those looks. It is a solid and clean classic that would seem to need very little work to make it really sparkle. Alternatively, the next owner could drive it exactly as it currently stands, maximizing their fun in the sun when Summer arrives. The Impala is located in Lewiston, Utah, and has been listed for sale here on eBay. Strong bidding has pushed the price of the Impala to $16,500, but the reserve hasn’t been met.
There is no doubt that finished in black, the Impala manages to combine elements of elegance and menace together very nicely. The vehicle has received a repaint at some point in the past, and while this is beginning to show its age with a few cracks and marks across the car, it still remains very presentable. The White soft-top looks like it is in extremely good condition, with no signs of any rips or tears, and a very tight fit. Rust does not seem to be an issue with the Impala. The owner states that the floors and frame are solid, while there are no external issues visible. Some of the external trim and chrome is showing some of the swirling in the finish that can develop over time, but it remains just as presentable as the rest of the exterior. The Convertible is fitted with tinted glass, and this also looks to be in nice condition.
Having a car that looks menacing is one thing, but having one with the muscle to back it is even better. This Impala is happy to oblige on that score, especially given the fact that it is an SS 396. That beautiful V8 pumps out an impressive 325hp, which finds its way to the rear wheels via a 3-speed Hydramatic transmission. Making driving an effortless chore, the Convertible has also been equipped with power steering and power brakes. The owner doesn’t reveal how well the Impala runs or drives, but it would seem that he is very approachable if any potential buyers wish to make inquiries about any aspect of the vehicle. The Impala SS Convertible is not a light car, pushing the scales to 4,074lbs. However, it should still be capable of romping through the ¼ mile in 16.1 seconds, which isn’t shabby for what is essentially a full-sized luxury car. If the vehicle is mechanically strong, then that sounds like it would be a lot of fun.
The interior of the Impala manages to match the exterior’s level of menace by being finished in Black vinyl. Once again, we’re talking about an area of the car that is presentable, but not perfect. The dash pad has some cracks, while the seats have some rips and tears. Beyond that, the rest of the interior trim and carpet look like they are quite nice. I think that the polished metal trim on the dash and console provide a nice contrast, and also prevent the interior from potentially looking quite somber. There is an aftermarket radio/8-track player fitted to the dash, and I can’t say that I am thrilled with the quality of the installation. The console wears a great brace of factory gauges, although these might need some work. I’m pretty sure that the needle on the temperature gauge shouldn’t be pointing straight down! Given the dark paint and trim tones, the inclusion of air conditioning is probably a pretty good thing.
The strong bidding on this ’66 Impala SS Convertible doesn’t really surprise me, and I would be willing to wager that there is still some bidding left to go. This is a car that isn’t perfect, but it is a solid vehicle that really only requires a light cosmetic restoration to help it to stand out more than it already does. Values on these have remained very stable in the past 5-years, so it will be interesting to see what it finally sells for…if the reserve is met. I’d like to think that one of our Barn Finds readers might wind up owning this great classic.
Aargh… in 1974 I bought a 1966 Impala convertible in that lovely Chevy yellow color with a black top and interior. 327, Georgia (or Alabama?) car with no rust. It needed some minor attention. I paid $175 for it and parked it at a friend’s business. After a few weeks he told me I needed to get it gone, I needed money for something, and I sold it for… $100. Yep.