This 1966 Chevrolet Impala has led multiple lives, undergoing a color change and a couple of engine transplants. Many readers will agree that its latest iteration is the best, with stunning Blue paint and a big-block under the hood. The new owner can enjoy this classic immediately, adding a few finishing touches as time and circumstances allow. The seller has listed the Impala here on eBay in Hudson, Wisconsin. Nine bids have pushed the price to $2,025, and, unsurprisingly, that figure falls short of the reserve.

Chevrolet introduced its Fourth Generation Impala range for the 1965 model year, and the company had an immediate hit on its hands. Sales far exceeded expectations, and it is fair to say that the executives in the corridors of power at Chevrolet would have had a spring in their step. The company performed annual upgrades to keep the badge looking fresh until its replacement was unveiled in 1971. This 1966 Sedan has led what could be termed a literally colorful life. It left the line wearing Chateau Slate (Silver) paint, but underwent a transformation to its current Danube Blue at an unspecified time. Both colors are inherently classy, suiting the Impala’s styling perfectly. The paint shines nicely, the panels are straight, and the only rust issues are limited to the trunk floor. With the trim and tinted glass also in good condition, it would be best to describe this classic’s overall presentation as being consistent with a tidy driver.

The exterior paint work isn’t the only change to this Impala, because plenty has happened below the surface during the past fifty-nine years. The first owner ordered the car with a 283ci V8, hooked to a Powerglide transmission. That would have provided competent performance, but a subsequent owner swapped out that combination for a 305 and a Turbo 350. However, the seller took the bull by the horns, scrapping those components to install a 454ci V8 and a Powerglide. They utilized as many period parts as possible to give the engine bay the “correct” look. The big-block started life in a 1976 Pickup, and they admit that its mileage is unknown. They fitted a new oil pump and a timing set, which was a wise move. They also added an upgraded Holley carburetor and HEI ignition for improved reliability. The final piece of the puzzle is the new dual exhaust, and the embedded video in their listing confirms that the big-block sounds excellent as it exhales through the system. The seller admits that the rear end will soon need attention, as it is becoming noisy. However, the Impala runs and drives well and is a turnkey proposition for its new owner.

The seller didn’t restrict their attention to this Impala’s mechanical components. They fitted a set of bucket seats in place of the original bench, treating the entire interior to a retrim. Unsurprisingly, it presents almost perfectly. The images confirm the seller’s statement that the pad is cracked, and the buyer faces to prospect of spending around $500 on a replacement. However, that would be the final piece of the puzzle on the presentation front. There are a few functional issues requiring attention. The air conditioning doesn’t blow cold, and the clock, radio, and some warning lights are inoperative.

Some readers will contend that, as it has four doors, this 1966 Chevrolet Impala is not as desirable as the Sport Coupe variant. The market supports this, as two fewer doors typically equate to a higher value. It would be unfair to dismiss this classic out of hand, because it is a practical alternative for enthusiasts with a young family or teenagers with lengthening legs. Returning the Impala to its original form would be possible, with every part required readily available. However, it is an attractive package in its current form, and the winning bidder could add the finishing touches to create a genuinely eye-catching classic. Is that the path that you would choose?