Freshly Restored: 1965 Chevrolet Impala SS Convertible

Some people think that because they can’t complete a project build, they aren’t genuine enthusiasts. However, nothing could be further from the truth, because our worth as enthusiasts is measured by the passion in our hearts, not our ability to wield a spanner. So if builds aren’t viable, classics like this beautiful 1965 Chevrolet Impala SS Convertible fill the void. This freshly restored classic has no genuine weaknesses, making it ideal for someone seeking a high-end driver. Barn Finder Curvette deserves full credit for spotting the Impala listed here on Craigslist in Boise, Idaho, for $70,000.

No decade will ever match the 1960s in automotive history. It saw the rise of the pony and muscle car market segments, and personal luxury cars developed strong competition. Consumer confidence was high, and many badges achieved sales records that remain unsurpassed. Against this backdrop, Chevrolet released its Fourth Generation Impala. It immediately earned praise for its crisp, clean styling. So it is no surprise it was a showroom hit. Our featured Impala is a first-year SS Convertible that is definitely eye-catching. The seller says this beauty recently received a frame-off restoration and has covered only 2,000 miles since. The Regal Red paint looks flawless, cloaking laser-straight panels. The underside shots reveal no surface corrosion and absolutely no penetrating rust. The fender skirts won’t appeal to everyone, but they emphasize the car’s sleek styling. The trim is immaculate, and the glass is crystal clear.

This Impala isn’t the most potent in the model range, but its 327ci V8 delivers respectable performance and the sweet exhaust note many enthusiasts expect from Chevrolet’s iconic small-block. It sends 250hp and 350 ft/lbs of torque to the rear wheels via a two-speed Powerglide transmission, but the steering and brakes are unassisted. The seller says the restoration included rebuilding the numbers-matching engine and transmission to factory specifications, and that the drivetrain is barely broken in. The engine bay presentation matches the rest of the vehicle, and potential buyers can consider the Convertible a turnkey proposition.

The Impala’s interior isn’t lavish, but it features some excellent factory touches. The buyer receives bucket seats, a console, a genuine timber tilt wheel, a factory under-dash tissue box, and an AM radio. Given the TLC lavished on the rest of the car, it is unsurprising the seller did a complete interior retrim in Black vinyl. Naturally, the lack of use means that it presents in as-new condition, with no wear or other problems. One challenge with classic Convertibles is hiding a substandard interior with the top down. Driving this Impala in that form won’t embarrass the new owner.

Some classics attract only a passing glance, while others draw crowds like moths to a flame. I think this 1965 Impala SS Convertible falls into the second category. Its presentation is stunning, and since it has covered only 2,000 miles since the restoration ended, any minor glitches should be ancient history. It isn’t the most potent car on the planet, but few weapons are better for open-road cruising or patrolling beachside boulevards with the top down and the wind in your hair. It isn’t cheap, but the impression is that the buyer won’t need to spend a dime beyond the purchase price. Those factors make the SS worth a closer look.