Solid V8: 1964 Chevrolet Impala

Judging a book by its cover can be a mistake, especially when the classic in question is this 1964 Chevrolet Impala. It looks pretty rough, with tired paint and a selection of dings and dents. However, it is a rock-solid classic below the surface, and although it has sat for decades, the seller has coaxed its V8 back to life. They have listed the Impala here on eBay in Pleasanton, California. Bidding currently sits below the reserve at $8,100.

Marketed from 1961 until 1964, Chevrolet’s Third Generation Impala featured more conservative styling than its predecessor. By the time our final-year example rolled off the line in 1964, the fins that had been integral to the Second Generation were a distant memory. Ordered by its first owner in Almond Fawn, this beauty has spent its life in sunny California. So, crawling beneath it and finding no penetrating rust is unsurprising. There is dry surface corrosion that should be treated to prevent deterioration, but this Impala is structurally sound. The panels have a broad selection of dings and dents, but the only visible rust is a few small spots in the lower rear quarter panels and door corners. None are severe enough to justify wholesale steel replacement when well-crafted patches would provide an effective solution. The Impala is missing a few trim pieces, and others might require restoration or replacement. It retains its spotless wheel covers, and the tinted glass looks pretty good.

The entry-level V8 for 1964 Impala buyers was the company’s mighty 283. It was available in only one form, producing a factory-quoted 195hp and 285 ft/lbs of torque. Add the two-speed Powerglide transmission and power steering to the equation, and this beauty would have been equally comfortable in the cut and thrust of city traffic or cruising at seventy on the open road. The seller states that the Impala has hibernated since 1997, but they have coaxed the motor back to life. It runs well, but sounds tired. Therefore, the buyer should budget for a rebuild. Pulling the motor would also provide an ideal opportunity to refresh the engine bay, ensuring that it presents flawlessly when the car is bolted back together.

Cars from this location are often a compromise. The dry climate is great for rust prevention, but can exact a heavy toll on upholstery and plastic. This Impala is no exception, because its interior is pretty sad. The combination of Fawn cloth and vinyl would have looked classy in its prime, but those days are far behind it. The upholstered surfaces are beyond repair, and the carpet is badly stained. However, the dash and pad look acceptable for a driver-grade restoration, so a simple retrim is all this interior requires to present nicely.

Choosing an ideal first project candidate can be challenging. Enthusiasts must balance their budget and skills against the car’s requirements. This 1964 Impala has many needs, from its panel and paint shortcomings to its tired V8. However, life in California has protected it from severe rust issues, minimizing the cutting and welding required during the build. Many enthusiasts will find that attractive, and with over a week remaining in the auction, they’ll have time to assess whether it is the ideal project for them. Not rushing a decision can be crucial, and this Impala provides that luxury. That said, would you consider returning this gem to its former glory?