Among Chevrolet’s vast array of vehicles throughout history, the Impala stands out for its undeniable cool factor. While it’s not the sole long rear-wheel-drive car from its era, the 1959 Impala radiates a unique allure, particularly with its batmobile-esque rear end. But here we see 1959 Chevrolet Impala in a shape of Restomod. It’s a modern car in technical meaning. Safety from 1960s is the only one significant imperfection of this restomod.
What era are we delving into? It’s the 1950s, a period characterized by extravagance, especially as General Motors commemorated its 50th anniversary by unveiling remarkable iterations of their largest, most luxurious sedans. The likes of the Buick Roadmaster Riviera, Pontiac Bonneville Catalina, Cadillac Eldorado Seville, and the Chevy Bel Air Impala epitomized this era, boasting remarkable size and opulent chrome trim. Just mentioning “American Graffiti” encapsulates the essence of this time.
The first generation resembled a more refined Bel Air and was only in production until 1959 when this model was introduced. Its debut as a standalone model in 1959 proved a resounding success, with nearly half a million units sold, making it Chevrolet’s best-selling model. Hence, it’s no surprise that many vintage Impalas surface for sale, although not all are in pristine condition.
In 1959, the Impala introduced the 348ci V8 engine with a triple 2-barrel carburetor, producing 320 horsepower, thus igniting the horsepower competition. This positioned the Impala as a pioneer in the muscle car movement, a fact often overlooked, akin to the Pontiac GTO’s contribution.
The most expensive 59 Impala?
Behold the GM 572ci V8 Crate Engine, boasting a staggering 620 horsepower, nearly double the factory output. While it may not be the latest ZZ572/720R, the sheer power of this all-motor 9.4-liter setup is undeniable. Enhanced with Chevy’s aluminum heads, a Holley 4-barrel carburetor, ceramic-coated headers, and a meticulously adorned air cleaner featuring old-school pin striping, this big-block powerhouse exudes performance excellence.
In typical restomod fashion, the inclusion of disc brakes might not come as a shock, but the sheer extravagance of slotted and drilled rotors with 6-piston calipers is nothing short of awe-inspiring. To ensure optimal handling, Ridetech air suspension, complemented by robust 3-link rear components, tubular control arms, and a specialized control module, has been expertly installed. This meticulous attention to detail ensures that this boat-tailed behemoth rides with both elegance and precision.
However, it’s not just the mechanical prowess that captivates enthusiasts. The sleek black paint finish, coupled with the supercar-worthy price tag, adds to the allure of this colossal masterpiece. While the 3rd-gen Impala once reigned supreme as the quintessential gangster’s ride, collectors now hold the flamboyant first and second-generation models in high esteem, evident in their increasing valuation.
Case in point, a recent restomod of a 1959 Chevrolet Impala has hit the market with a jaw-dropping price tag of $229,900 through Vanguard. In comparison, a 1960 Impala coupe recently showcased commanded a modest $85,000. However, the array of innovative features packed into this exceptional specimen is truly mind-blowing.
By the way, else we have here an article about cool Ford F100 restomod. That oldschool truck is an awesome toy for car enthusiast with money.