It is a decision that many enthusiasts will agonize over. When confronted with a tidy and solid survivor like this 1964 Impala Convertible, is restoration or preservation the most appropriate option? That is the one facing the winning bidder because while this gem presents well in its current form, lifting its appearance to a higher level shouldn’t involve much time or money. Why not proceed further to determine whether this is a classic that you want to park in your garage as an early Christmas present? The Impala is listed here on eBay in Boise, Idaho. Frantic action has pushed the price to $47,500, although that figure remains short of the reserve.

If I am candid, I must admit that classics wearing Black paint don’t typically attract me. However, the Tuxedo Black gracing the panels of this Third Generation Impala Convertible helps it to stand out. The subtle but glimmering trim, spotless hubcaps, and narrow whitewalls accentuate the visual impact. The seller describes the paint as a “good 10-footer.” That means that while it retains a healthy shine and looks tidy from a distance, a close inspection reveals the typical selection of minor marks and chips. However, with no major paint issues and the car’s lack of significant rust, preservation is a viable option. The matching Black power top is free from rips and other problems, ensuring occupants remain warm and dry if the weather turns nasty. As I said initially, the winning bidder has difficult decisions to make. This Impala is rock-solid, and its presentation is acceptable for a survivor-grade classic. A cosmetic refresh would be straightforward, but at least they will have time to consider their options carefully.

The theme of clean and tidy presentation continues inside this Impala. The seats show no evidence of rips or tears, although the cover on the back seat looks slightly odd. I can’t work out what is happening, because while stretching issues are typically on the base, this has suffered that problem on the back. It may require further investigation to determine whether the foam beneath has collapsed. Otherwise, the door trims look good, the dash and pad are excellent, and there are no carpet issues. Someone replaced the factory radio with a radio/cassette player, and I would probably substitute something more appropriate. A gauge cluster is mounted under the dash, but the position would likely cause most drivers to hit it with their knees. Moving it slightly should be easy, and it would undoubtedly improve driver comfort. One significant advantage this Impala enjoys compared to the SS variant is the front bench seat. The SS features buckets and a console, but this Convertible can be considered a genuine six-seater.

Powering this Impala is the L30 version of the 327ci V8. It sends 250hp and 350 ft/lbs of torque to the rear wheels via a two-speed Powerglide transmission. The original owner focused on relaxed driving, which is emphasized by their choice of power steering. Buyers could order more potent versions of the Impala in 1964, but this car offers a welcome compromise between performance, reasonable economy, and relaxed classic motoring. Potential buyers can consider this drop-top a turnkey proposition. The seller states it runs and drives well without issues or problems. If you fancy a rewarding Christmas vacation, flying to Boise and traveling home behind the wheel of this gem could be the best way to enjoy the Yuletide cheer.

Determining whether a particular classic is desirable can be challenging, but this 1964 Impala Convertible leaves no doubt. The bidding hasn’t hit the reserve, but this isn’t due to a lack of effort by potential buyers. This classic has attracted an incredible fifty-six bids, and with over six days remaining on this auction, there is scope for the total to increase significantly. We rarely see a classic at Barn Finds where the bidding action dives into three-digit territory, but that could be the case here. Do you think that could happen, and what do you think the sale price will be?