Chevrolet launched the Impala in 1958 as a Bel Air version, but the overnight success recorded by the new nameplate convinced the company to promote it to a stand-alone series a year later.
Impala shared the common parts with other full-size models in Chevrolet’s lineup, including the Bel Air and the Biscayne, though it typically sported all GM brand’s bells and whistles. A 1959 “Impala” convertible is looking for a new owner on eBay, with the auction receiving impressive attention, especially in the last couple of days.
First of all, there’s a good reason why I used the quotes in the paragraph above. The car is not a genuine Impala but a clone. The starting point was a Biscayne, but seller justf98fx’s impressive work turned it into a spot-on Impala that looks almost like the real deal.
The car has already received plenty of fixes and improvements, including new floors throughout and all-original convertible body braces. The Biscayne steering wheel still greets the driver when stepping inside, but the seller explains that an Impala automatic column is also available and sells with the car.
This Impala is a work in progress, but the owner says finishing the project shouldn’t be too difficult. A full black interior kit and a white top are available, too, for anyone interested in bringing this Impala clone back to the road.
In charge of putting the wheels in motion is an all-original 283 (4.7-liter), but the seller didn’t share any information about it. While we know it’s an original unit, it’s unclear if the engine still starts and runs. A good mechanic should decrypt all details with an in-person inspection.
The 283 was the base V8 on the 1959 Impala, while the 348 was the icing on the cake for anyone who wanted to use the car for a more thrilling drive. Chevrolet also offered a six-cylinder unit for customers interested mainly in fuel economy.
Aesthetically, this project looks very well, which is probably why the car has received so much attention lately. The rust is no longer a concern, especially after the owner installed new floors, and most of the parts are still in place – some of them, such as the seats, come in a rough shape, but the seller claims they are repairable (I still believe you should also inspect everything in person).