While opening their garage to find a pristine classic is the dream of many enthusiasts, others derive pleasure from solid driver-grade vehicles that can be enjoyed immediately. That is the opportunity provided by this 1966 Chevrolet Impala. Adding to its appeal is the seller’s decision to replace the original V8 with a fire-breathing big-block. If you are beginning to sway and need one final slice of motivation to pursue the Impala further, the seller’s strategy of offering it with No Reserve might be just what you need. You will find this classic listed here on eBay in West Babylon, New York. The bidding sits at $13,100, and barring unforeseen circumstances, a new home for this might Chevy is only days away.

While Chevrolet utilized many of its predecessor’s mechanical components when developing the Fourth Generation Impala, the company bolted these to a vehicle featuring an entirely new body and frame. These cars remained on sale from 1965 until 1970, featuring exceptionally clean styling that won favor with buyers who lined up to take one home. Our feature ’66 Impala is a Sport Coupe finished in Ermine White. The seller confirms that the vehicle underwent a repaint over fifteen years ago, helping to explain that while it shines nicely, close inspection reveals a selection of small cosmetic imperfections. These extend beyond scratches or chips, with small panel bumps and bright trim imperfections. However, the car remains presentable and could be enjoyed in its current form. Rust is restricted to a couple of small bubbles in the passenger-side lower quarter panel. The rest of the car is as solid as the day it left the factory, as confirmed by this YouTube video. We get a clear view of the floors and frame, and there are no problems to cause sleepless nights. The glass is clear, and the Impala sits on a set of iconic Rally wheels.

Chevrolet offered 1966 Impala buyers a wide selection of engines, with this car’s first owner selecting a 283ci V8. It is unclear which version it was, so it may have delivered either 195hp or 220hp, as stated in that year’s Sales Brochure. However, that is largely irrelevant, with the seller performing a transplant that has turned this classic into a fire-breathing beast. In a case of “out with the old, in with the new,” this engine bay now houses a 396ci V8. The seller teamed the big-block with an automatic transmission, but there is no power assistance for the steering or the upgraded disc brakes. This wasn’t a case of dropping in an engine with an unknown history, because this beast features an upgraded camshaft, other internal modifications, an aluminum intake, an Edelbrock 750cfm carburetor, headers, and a dual exhaust. The seller indicates that the Impala runs and drives well, a claim that is supported by the previously mentioned video. They suggest that it might benefit from a radiator upgrade to keep the temperature in check, but it appears that there are no other mechanical needs.

The Impala’s interior is probably tidier than the exterior, with no glaring problems. The Tan vinyl upholstered surfaces look extremely clean, with the back seat sporting a new cover. The matching carpet is a recent addition, while the dash and pad are quite tidy. The seller states that the heater and radio are inoperative and that careful inspection may reveal the occasional blown bulb. Otherwise, it is a driver-grade interior featuring additional gauges to monitor the big-block’s health.

This 1966 Chevrolet Impala isn’t perfect, and that is why it deserves a closer look. Returning the panels and paint to a perfect state would be straightforward, but leaving it as-is would allow the buyer to enjoy all that it offers without fear of the occasional stone-chip or scratch. Owning a classic should be about relaxed enjoyment, providing an escape from the stresses and strains that are often a part of our daily existence. That is one of the characteristics that this Impala would deliver effortlessly, while the upgraded engine should provide plenty of power to add to the joy. Are those thoughts enough to tempt you? If not, it’s worth remembering that there is No Reserve in play with this auction. That may be enough to lift it from tempting to irresistible. Do you agree?