I was 55 before I ever purchased a four-door car, and I also used to boast that I’d never buy another vehicle that didn’t have a stick shift of some sort. However, times changed, and even after giving in to the norms the auto industry threw my way, I still generally prefer coupes. Of course, there are always exceptions, and the sleek styling of the 1960 Chevrolet Impala hardtop is so cool that the extra doors don’t bother me at all. This one’s also powered by a big block, further adding to its desirability. If you’ve been searching for a nicely-preserved early Impala, this 1960 model is located in Ponca, Nebraska, and can be found here on Facebook Marketplace. The seller is hoping for $21,000, but also mentions the possibility of a best offer. T.J., thanks for another excellent tip here!
It would have been nice if the seller had provided us with a bit more background on this car, but the specifics he does share with us are impressive, especially when it comes to the engine. The 1960 Impala started with the 235 inline-six as the smallest powerplant, followed by a 283 cubic-inch V8. Those wanting more performance than the small block could deliver could step up to a larger 348, which is what’s under the hood here. Attached is a Turboglide automatic transmission, which reader T-Roy pointed out is totally different than a Powerglide and much more advanced, with the seller reporting that his Chevy runs and drives great. Those who held out for another year had the option to equip their Impala with the legendary 409, but that’s another story for another time.
Chevrolet offered a couple of different styles for the 4-door Impala in 1960, with the sedan (also known as the post car) having a pillar between the front and rear doors. This one is a hardtop, which eliminates the pillar and window frames, creating a more sporty appearance while still providing more family-friendly use than the coupe. There are no details mentioned regarding the body, but the sheet metal and paint appear to be in nice shape here, with the jet-like trim from the rear doors back among my favorites from this period.
The interior appears to be in decent condition, with a couple of small holes visible in the front bench. There’s some light wear on the top of the driver’s door panel, probably from an arm resting here, along with a few defects on the steering wheel. However, the dash and instruments look good, and for my taste, this one seems good enough already to serve as an enjoyable driver. What are your thoughts on this 1960 Chevrolet Impala, and its asking price of $21k?
My dad had a ’60s Oldsmobile 98 with the same top. Made a good looking car. Having a huge engine took the fun factor over the top. His was white over maroon.
I’ve always loved he baby blue with the white top. My first diesel pickup was an 85 6.9 F250, regular cab 4×4, baby blue and white two tone.
I couldn’t help but notice the ac compressor with the belt in place. JS
I could very easily fall in love with that car. It’s nice! It needs some attention but that would be a fun winter project. What surprised me is the underhood picture. It looks pretty tight in there much like the newer cars. I guess mechanics in the 60s got bloody hands working on those older cars like we do today. I like it! I’d love to have it! I love that 60s styling. The contours, fins, trim, everything about 60s cars make me happy. Look at that steering wheel! Imagine something like that in one of today’s cars lol. Yeah today’s boring all look the same suvs. I hate the looks of new cars. This baby had a personality!
Yeah, you’re right. Between the generator, a/c compressor and the W-motor itself, it’s does appear a little tight in there.
I have always like the dash/instrument package on these cars along with the steering wheel.
Lovely looking car. Between the 1959 and 1960 Chevy, I have never been able to choose. I love the front end of the 1960 model, but I love the rear end of the 1959 Chevy.
My mother owned a dear 1960 4 door sedan – 283 with a powerglide. The motors on these were indestructable! It was a pretty smooth running and driving car, although it was a little “floaty”. She wanted a newer car by the early ’70’s and gave it to my dad – they were divorced at that point and he liked the car. It was good until someone hit it and put it out of commission! Kinda wished that the car was still around…
Flattops – like the 1959/60 GM offerings are called – are sought after but the price – although maybe in-line with it’s condtion rarity – might be to much for those wanting one. There was a nice brown/copper one with like options posted for sale in recent months – not sure if it sold.
Nice car with a desireable engine. Its needs some more love and white walls.
Not sure about the price- I would guess, that 16K should be the maximum you can get for it in this condition.
easy enough to swap the powerslide out and insert a 200-r4. Maybe alter the trans mount a bit but a weekends work gives you 2 extra gears and better cruising ability. This would share daily driving tasks with my El Camino.
My parents bought a new 1960 Impala 4 dr hardtop. Theirs was white with black accent stripe. I believe the color of this one was called Tasco Tourquoise. Nice car but in my opinion over priced given its condition. Seat covers not original, looks like the drivers A pillar dogleg has issues, and likely a repaint. $12,000 to $15,000 would be more like it.
This car is listed as having a turboglude transmission. Similar to a dynaflow. Totally different from the Powerglide.