1965 brought styling updates to the affordably elegant Impala. Debuting in 1958, the Impala was one of General Motors’ inexpensive full-size cars. In 1965, the boxiness of the ’63 and ’64 body styles disappeared, replaced by new, rounded contours. The 1965 Impala came in several versions, including the 4-door family car, the flashier 2-door coupe, and the sporty convertible. But the one to get would be the Super Sport Convertible. This was the pinnacle of the 1965 Impala lineup. This Madeira Maroon-over-white interior specimen is available here on craigslist from a Boise, Idaho dealership for $39,999. Thanks again, Curvette, for the great tip!
The engine under the hood is a numbers-matching Chevrolet 327. A factory HA code indicates this engine is the 250-horsepower version. It is mated to a 4-speed Syncro-Mesh manual transmission. Both the engine and transmission have been rebuilt and have less than 5,000 miles since the rebuild. The 327 has aftermarket top-end parts, and the seller is including the original parts with the sale.
The white interior is original and in good condition for a 61-year-old car. The original white convertible top needs replacement, and the original convertible top boot is included. The car was repainted an unspecified number of years ago, retaining the original 1965 Madeira Maroon paint. 1965 was the final year for the distinctive 3 round taillamps on each side of the trunk and rear fender. 1966 saw a change to a single rectangular design
Looking over the photos in the Craigslist post, it seems the repaint may need attention, and the convertible top is an obvious candidate for replacement. Since much of the car is original and it comes with the original engine top end, I could imagine this could be brought to a very decent restoration. However, the price is just above the average being asked for similar vehicles at $38,500. Given current listings, which range anywhere from $8,500 to $105,000, is this car worth buying, and is it worth the additional dollars it will take to restore? I think the right Impala enthusiast would see this as a great place to start or just simply use it for car shows or cruise nights without spending much more than a new top. What would you do with this drop-top SS?
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