If you wanted an Impala in 1968, the first engine you were offered by the dealer was the base six with 155 horsepower. It was a decent choice for people who wanted the Impala to go to the supermarket, while everybody else could get the base V8, now a 307 with 200 horsepower.
The first optional unit was the $63 327ci small-block V8 with 250 horsepower, while an upgraded version of the same engine carried a $93 price tag and produced 275 horsepower. Both 327ci units were popular in the Impala customer base, alongside the base V8.
The more powerful options included the $158 396 V9 with 325 horsepower, while people interested in big blocks could choose the 427 with 385 or 425 horsepower. The latter could be had for $447 with the SS 427 option.
The Impala in these photos left the factory with a 327ci under the hood, but this engine is long gone. However, whoever removed the engine didn’t want to ignore power, so the Impala is now fitted with a 350ci unit donated by a 1969 Chevrolet. It develops 300 horsepower and starts and runs, albeit it’s important to know that the vehicle is far from being road-worthy.
This Impala has been sitting since the early ’90s, and eBay seller adamsclassicautoparts explains that the engine starts off a jumper wire to the starter. It still needs mechanical fixes, and it needs them now, but it’s good to know that the engine is not locked up from sitting.
Hats off to the owner for sharing such a detailed description of the car, and I advise you to check it in full before making an offer. The car has the typical rust issues, and the interior needs attention. As anyone would expect on a 1968 Impala, especially considering it’s been sitting for so long, the floors are rusty and will need to be replaced.
If you’re particularly interested in seeing the glass half-full, it’s worth mentioning that this Impala is still complete, albeit it’s obvious that it’ll require extensive work. It’s not an easy project, as it needs attention on all fronts, including mechanical, the body, and the interior, but it can become a head-turning occasional driver when it’s done.
The selling price could be an issue, as bidders don’t seem willing to trigger the Buy It Now price and prefer to challenge each other as part of the auction. The top offer is approaching $1,050, but the reserve is still in place. Its value is unknown, and it’s impossible to tell how far we are from unlocking it.
Meanwhile, the Impala is parked in Olean, New York, and whoever buys it will need transportation to move it to their garage.