If you don’t mind getting your hands dirty, knocking out a few dings and dents, and wielding a spray gun, this 1962 Chevrolet Impala deserves a close look. It runs and drives well, featuring its original V8, a rebuilt transmission, and an upgraded braking system. However, the ace up its sleeve could be its lack of rust, making it a rock-solid project candidate. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the Impala listed here on Craigslist in Spokane Valley, Washington, with an asking price of $12,500 OBO.
Introduced in 1961, Chevrolet’s Third Generation Impala range remained on sale until the end of 1964. The company’s latest offering featured radically new styling as the fins of its predecessor disappeared. Our featured 1962 Impala is a 4-door variant that was ordered by its first owner in Tuxedo Black and Ermine White. It is no oil painting, with the panels sporting a wide selection of dings and dents. None are bad enough to justify steel replacement if the new owner invests time in massaging the panels and doesn’t mind the occasional small spot of Bondo. However, if they use any filler, it will be the first this car has ever seen. There is no known accident history or evidence of rust repairs. Speaking of rust, the news is extremely positive. The seller states that the floors, frame, and trunk pan are rock-solid. That means this build won’t require any cutting or welding. The trim and glass look acceptable for a driver-grade refurbishment, and the aftermarket wheels add presence.
This Impala is powered by its original 283ci V8, paired with a two-speed Powerglide transmission. It also features power steering, while the seller replaced the entire braking system, upgrading the car to power front discs. That isn’t the only recent mechanical TLC, because the Powerglide is freshly rebuilt. The seller also recently rebuilt the original carburetor and installed an HEI ignition and a new exhaust. The motor would have produced 170hp and 275 ft/lbs of torque when the Impala was new, and it may even match that sixty-four years after the car left the lot. Potential buyers can consider this a turnkey classic they can enjoy while they plan its restoration.
The Impala’s interior is a mixed bag. The seller recently installed a new carpet set, while the cloth and vinyl trim is original. The seats exhibit visible wear and splits, and the radio is missing. However, the remaining upholstered surfaces look very respectable, as do the dash and pad. Sourcing new seatcovers shouldn’t be challenging, and locating something to fill the hole left by the radio also shouldn’t be a problem. If the new owner is on a budget, slipcovers for the seats and a retro-style stereo would lift the appearance without breaking the bank.
I have previously acknowledged that four-door classics aren’t typically as popular as their two-door siblings, but they deserve their place in the world. They are undeniably practical, which some enthusiasts consider a critical factor when contemplating a potential purchase. This 1962 Impala is a promising project candidate that the buyer can drive and enjoy immediately. Finding a productive way to spend winter is sometimes challenging, but hiding away in a workshop while whipping this Impala’s panels and paint into shape could be the perfect option. Is that a challenge that you would consider?
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