When I thought this 1973 Chevrolet Impala was a two-door, the asking price here on craigslist—$11,500—seemed like it might not be too out of line. Never mind the faded paint on the trunk and the surface rust on the top. Tipster Chuck Foster was looking like he’d nabbed a winner. But wait. It’s a four-door. And look at those wheels. Ugh. Maybe a trip to Nashville, TN isn’t something I need to do anytime soon.
But for two minutes, going away from the usual early-1970s Colonnade Coupes like the Cutlass seemed like an idea to toy with. Think about it—bulletproof 350-CID V8. Just enough power to motivate movement, if not to win many street races. Large windows that you can see out of, unlike modern cars with their pinched views and little lights in the sideview mirrors to help you with your blind spots. Other advantages: With a car like this, you’re likely the only one at the show, and everyone who goes by says, “I remember those.” Conversations ensue. And for those of us who live in smog states, this car is exempt, so easier to own. By the way, it represents the model’s fifth generation, which stretched from 1971-76.
But wait. What the heck? There are four doors here. That’s usually a value-killer. And the Impala has the most ridiculous wheels on it that you’re likely to see, unless that’s a sub-culture thing. In that case, I’d like to make an offer that calculates out with you, Mr. Original Owner, keeping those hidden away in your garage. To the car’s credit, the interior seems remarkably original and tidy, though it’s never clear to me why a seller doesn’t vacuum the floor of the car before photographing it. If you can’t keep the floors clean, how often are you attending to routine under-hood maintenance?
Still, what would the buyer be getting? A 90,000-mile car with some paint problems as noted. In fact, add to what was already mentioned that the driver’s door looks to be a mismatch in color with the front clip. That engine is said to be original, and looks like it, but what’s its fitment for use? “Run great,” the ad says. So to temper enthusiasm, ask yourself whether you have $11K to buy a car worth half that on a good day? Or if you just love this look and want to make this large Chevy your new baby, fill your pockets with cash and head out. Just don’t be surprised if this package shows more needs in person than it confesses in the rather low-detail ad listing.
If the seller truly wants to sell this at a fair price – LOSE THOSE WHEELS!
I’m a 4-door fan…but those wheels makes me wanna hurl..
4 doors rule!!!!!!
4 doors rule only when they’re on a long-roof…
On the bright side should get a few hundred in scrap value for those wheels….
The wheels remind me of a hot-cross bun ☕️ 😋
I’m not even sure what those rims would look good on Stan. But I think you nailed it with Hot Cross Buns. Now I’m hungry…..
They would look awesome on the conveyor belt at the scrapyard.
I am not into the donk culture and large wheels either but at least it is one of the easiest things to change on a car so long as there’s been no alterations to the suspension. I’m more of an original or day two kinda guy too, but I will say, anyone that keeps a classic on the road has my respect, no matter what type of wheels the car is rolling on.
How inclusive of you!! The progressives would be thrilled!
I think he should move the comma over one digit on that price. He’s just the latest dreamer who thinks his taxicab is worth its weight in gold.
naw—just the right amount of doors!!
The ad says it’s a four door hardtop but I believe it’s a sedan. Poor man’s Cadillac?
The wheels ARE hideous. But too many doors? Nope! It has as many doors as it came with and there’s nothing wrong with 4 doors to people who truly like old cars.
Lousy pictures. Wheels look like they came off a coal mining cart.
Rims/tires are worth more than the car!
I owned one just like this one in the same color with a white roof nd the channel less windows in 1998-2002 and sold mine for 2200 dollars back then and it had normal 15 inch steel rims with moon chevy hubcaps and mine had working A/C and it was a nevada car which is were I live. Those rims have got to go on this car but a least they have the originals!!
worth maybe 1/2 of asking. ringling bros are looking for those wheels for their clown car.
I owned one just like this one in the same color with a white roof nd the channel less windows in 1998-2002 and sold mine for 2200 dollars back then and it had normal 15 inch steel rims with moon chevy hubcaps and mine had working A/C and it was a nevada car which is were I live. Those rims have got to go on this car but a least they have the originals!! Mine also had a power bench seat!
I heard they danced on a respectable Buick halftime during the Super Bowl. Shame they didn’t know about this donk…
Those wheels are the equivalent of the cherry bomb on my slant six Volare.
🚍 I can never figure out how you guys send pictures of your cars , I wish I could figure this out…
Can’t figure it out…
Gotta love all the armchair sh*t talkers crying about her shoes. The wont spend $7 for a membership, don’t buy anything or add value but check in to dump on everything for ego. Have to hand it to the BarnFinds crew for putting up with them. I’d dump the clowns.
And? So, you’re a member with an alias? Better luck next time.
This your car, friend?
Quit whining. The ghetto rims are garbage and that’s the general consensus here. There’s a million opinions and styles and if someone doesn’t like your style then man up and keep doing your thing and move on. Lookie here boys we got us a $7 high roller from downtown!! 🤡
I like the Edsel wagon , I have a1958 4 Door that I wish I could show everyone but still can’t figure out how to add from my library….
Hit reply….then “choose file”..download your pic..then send…Wahhlaa!!
I have 2 of the 1972 models, both 400 small blocks but not running. Not sure what I’ll do with them, but don’t want to see them demo derbied which is one of the prime things that happen to these models.
I love the 1972 Models are they 2 Doors and what do you want to do with them ?
Those are called IROC wheels haha.
I currently have a 74 2 door LS swap.
“MelanitesUnited” wow, very creative😆
Nothing wrong with a 4-door car, they are more practical than those ugly 2-door vehicles. Its not a sports car so get real. The shape of of the body is great considering its 52 years old. that’s more than 1/2 century.
how much alcohol does it take to think those wheels are a good idea….
Couple 40s of Olde English and a jug of Ripple might change perspective.
Too bad, a vacuum for the inside, buffer & polish for the paint, and stock Chevrolet wheels and this might present nicely. Anytime I see a car like this I think; someone inherited grandma’s car, thrashed it, and now that the fun is over wants to unload it. Run !