The United States was set to celebrate its Bicentenary in 1976, but Chevrolet started the party early by releasing the Spirit of America options package across various badges in 1974. The Impala was one of the beneficiaries, but the company only sold 2,500 examples. That makes these classics fairly rare today, and the first owner’s selection of paint shade raises the stakes. It presents nicely as a survivor-grade vehicle, with scope for the buyer to improve its appearance. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder T.J. for spotting the Impala listed here on Facebook Marketplace in Spanaway, Washington. The seller set their price at $12,500 for what appears to be a turnkey classic.
The 1974 Impala Spirit of America was an interesting vehicle from a cosmetic standpoint. Chevrolet strongly marketed these cars in a Triple-White paint-and-trim combination, although some buyers bucked the trend by opting for the optional Bright Blue Metallic paint. This Impala is one of those cars, and although it is a matter of personal taste, I think this version of the Spirit of America looks classier than the more common alternative. The package didn’t merely include the paint; buyers also received fender skirts, subtle Red, White, and Blue stripes, additional unique badges, and White Rallye wheels. The presentation of our feature car is extremely clean, with no major cosmetic shortcomings. The paint shines well, the panels are straight, and the vinyl top is very clean. I can’t spot any evidence of rust, while the spotless wheels and sparkling trim round out an exterior that should turn more than a few heads.
Every ’74 Impala Spirit of America featured White interior trim with subtle Red and Blue stripes on the door trims and wheel center. The only variation was to the dash, with buyers able to choose from Red, White, or Blue. This car features the latter, and the interior condition looks quite tidy. The driver’s-side front seat has a seam separation, but the rest of the interior is free of significant damage or deterioration. There are no engine bay shots. However, the Impala features a 350ci V8, a three-speed Hydramatic transmission, power steering, and power brakes. The seller confirms that this survivor is numbers-matching, and while the small-block only delivers 160hp and 245 ft/lbs of torque, it would be an effective highway cruiser. Although not stated explicitly, the indications suggest this is a turnkey classic.
This 1974 Chevrolet Impala is a tidy survivor that would turn heads. The paint and trim combination forming the Spirit of America package ensures that it stands out for the right reasons. Addressing its interior shortcomings could be fairly easy without resorting to a complete retrim. They aren’t urgent, allowing the new owner to enjoy this classic as-is while planning their strategy for the future. The seller’s price looks competitive when compared to recent successful sales, and with the Impala having been on the market for a relatively short time, I believe it will find a new home fairly quickly.
All I see here is bulk compared to the original ’58 Impala. Doesn’t even have enough power to get out of it’s own way.
1974 pretty much the last year before precipitous horsepower drop of 75 due to catalytic converters. It’s a big car, no doubt, but with a 454 4bbl and dual exhaust, they went pretty good.
A red dash would just look odd on this car. I just thought these only came in white paint. I mostly love Barn Finds for the history lessons.
Straight panels on a GM product? Say it isn’t so!