Remember when automobile manufacturers restyled their cars every couple of years? Chevrolet was no exception, and the 1959-60 models come to mind with their “batwing” styling. They were lean-looking and more futuristic than the bulky Chevies of 1958 (which was a one-year design). This 1960 Impala was parked in a driveway (and covered) for four decades yet is surprisingly solid though not drivable. A dealer in Los Angeles, California has custody, and this restorable “bubble-top” Impala is available here on craigslist for $29,995. Another nod goes to T.J. for bringing tips like this our way!
Of the two model years, the 1960 wasn’t quite as excessive in its styling as the 1959 – though not by much. The front grille was toned down and the “cat’s eye” taillights out back were replaced by the six little circles that would represent the Impala for years to come. The 1959-60 2-door hardtops had thin roof pillars which added to the space age look, though the term “bubble-top” is more commonly applied to the 1961 Impala and 1962 Bel Air.
As the story goes, this Chevy’s second owner parked the car about 40 years ago (1984?) and it stayed there until recently. He/she quit going out to start it 20 years ago, yet the engine still turns freely, so there’s reason to be optimistic that it can be coaxed back to life. We assume the fuel delivery system is all gummed up due to the passage of time, so refreshing that and adding a new battery might get the job done – at least initially.
Under the hood lies a 283 cubic inch V8 with 2-barrel carburetor. This would have been a 170-hp engine paired with a 2-speed Powerglide automatic. With power steering, it should have been a dream to drive. The odometer reads 8,800 miles, so we assume it has turned over. The paint is original and there are no signs of any body damage that required filler. The upholstery and carpeting are shot from exposure to the elements (and the possible invasion of small woodland creatures?). We’re told the California black plates have a current registration and will go with the sale. Who’s ready for a cool project?
This sure looks like a good candidate for a restoration. One thing I noticed though, if you look at the gear shift, reverse is the first one down from park, which is the case with the Turboglide not the Powerglide, where reverse is all the way down. Unless the original Turboglide gave up and they replaced it with a Powerglide which would also be possible. The exterior seems to be in better shape than the interior. Either way, you cant go wrong with a 283, they’re bullet proof.
Wow, I never knew that, however, I read the Turboglide had a “Gr” instead of L, and I’ve seen Powerglides with both R positions. Maybe someone can clear that up.
I need to make a correction. I think I made a mistake. In the late 50s either 58 or 59 GM changed the reverse position to the first spot after park. (P.R.N.D.L.) HOA mentioned and I forgot, the Turboglides had a GR position, not a low. Sorry about that.
My ’61 Buick Special had the PNDLR shifter for it’s version of the Powerglide. So maybe the smaller models weren’t upgraded until ’63?
It varied by car. The Roto Hydramatic was PNDSLR through 1964.
RalphP, yours would be a version of the Dynaflow, which all Buicks used through 1963.
My ’59 with “Powetslide” was P/R/N/D/L
“TurboGlide” replaced “L” with “Gr”.
Just like my sweet Lucia’s car she got at 15 and I kept running so we could get around – dad didn’t like that much and ran her off. We’re still friends to this day…..
Not sure of the seller’s quote of being the most affordable classic dealer – nice car – just not sure 30large good.
While in its decrepit state, it’s still a beautiful car, it just didn’t have the glitz of the ’59. Seemed the 1960 was a warmed over ’59, and ’61 was the real change. Someone surely will step to the plate for this one, they were beautiful cars.
30k ? Uhmmmmmm NOPE!
I really like it, but not $30K worth.
I had this exact same car, except with white roof and original 348 engine. 29K miles, nice mostly original paint, and beautiful 100% original interior. Undercarriage was pristine too.
Should never have sold it! Got $23,500 about 10 years ago. Apparently I underpriced it.
10 years ago,23,500 was good money for one of these,even with the 348.30,000 is too much for this one,good body or not.I was buying houses by the beach in Fl. 10 years ago for that price.
A lot of money for a car that needs a total restoration. IMO
A bubble top is a 61 Impala, a 61 and 62 Bel Air and a 61 Pontiac Ventura. No other models.
What are these people thinking? 30k for an entry level Impala 2 dr h t? In this condition? Okay……
CA thinking. They have their own price structure/thought. I worked out there ’15-’17 and planned to start buying nice restored VW vans in my home state of FL for $10k and sell out there for ~$50k. Just couldn’t devote the time needed outside of work.
Maybe I am getting to be grumpy old man age but back in the day the only car that was referred to as the bubble top was the 62 Bel Air. It has become an over used phrase IMHO
I had this car. The old man next door sold it to me in 69 for 200.00. Needed 3 in 1 oil to quiet the generator and I drove it until I went into the service.
Lots of fine memories with this ride.
30 K? Why not? Reupholdter and drive it, drum brakes and all.