Bubbletop Project? 1959 Chevrolet Impala

Chevrolet redesigned its automobiles for the second year in a row in 1959. Many believe it was a competitive move because of the success Chrysler had with its Forward Look designs of 1957. However, it was also thought to be an economic move so the Impala and company could share bodies with lower-level products from the other GM divisions. With its batwing rear deck, this 1959 Impala is a Sport Coupe (aka “Bubbletop”) and looks to have been sitting in a field for some time and could be either a pricey parts car or a restoration project. Located in Edinburg, Virginia, this Chevy is available here on eBay for $7,800 OBO.

The Impala was in its second year in 1959, having begun as an upscale part of the Bel Air series in 1958. A year later, it was the top-of-the-line car offered by Chevrolet, and the Bel Air was now the mid-level product above the Biscayne. Part of the design included an expansive use of glass on hardtops like the seller’s Sport Coupe. The Impala was quite popular, reaching annual sales of more than one million units in 1965, and would be in the lineup for years to come.

None of the history of this 1959 Impala is shared by the seller. The car has no title, though the VIN and cowl tags are said to still be in place. We’re told the car has a factory 283 cubic inch V8 under the hood, but we’re not treated to any photos of it since the hood is all askew. It’s said to be accompanied by a 2-speed Powerglide automatic, a common duo in 1959 Chevies.

From the photos provided, we conclude the sheet metal could be suspect, though we’re told the frame is in great condition (for a rebuild). No broad photos of the interior are provided, so we assume that it’s largely incomplete. This will be an ambitious project and – for the asking price – do you think a better foundation can be located to work with?