The Impala continued its impressive growth in 1962, helping Chevrolet reach new heights, also thanks to the introduction of the Chevy II.
The GM brand sold over 2.1 million cars in 1962, and the Impala accounted for over 1.4 million units. One in three Chevrolets sold in 1962 was an Impala, as this nameplate accounted for over 33% of the entire production this year.
The Impala could be had in multiple body styles, starting with the less desirable four-door sedan and ending with two-door models like the hardtop. A convertible and station wagons with room for six and nine passengers were also available.
The 1962 Impala in these photos claims it’s a survivor, and while this promise is fantastic for a car so desirable, I’d personally order a third-party inspection before even thinking of making an offer. A survivor status implies that the car is original, unrestored, and unaltered, and considering an Impala is typically a collectors’ dream, this promise could easily catch the attention of someone interested in a new member for their classic car lineup.
I won’t detail this car’s condition much because it’s obvious the Impala needs nothing, allegedly, as it has never been restored. I wish the seller shared more information on Craigslist, and they only claim it’s a “turn-key original survivor” without detailing the car’s history.
The only reason to walk away is probably the engine. The Impala is fitted with the laziest engine option available in 1962 – the 235ci six with 135 horsepower. This was the base unit on the Impala alongside the 283 wo-barrel with 170 horsepower. The top choice this year was the almighty 409ci big-block V8 with 409 horsepower, but few people ordered one, considering it cost $484 extra. The 409 was the right choice for the Super Sport, but the price eventually increased significantly, sconsidering the SS package could also be had for $53,80, with options like bucket seats selling at $102.25.
It’s not hard to tell that this Impala deserves a heated garage, and based on the photos, it looks like this is exactly how the car is currently protected from rain and snow. However, I can’t stress enough how important it is to gain more background on the survivor claim, especially as everything on this car looks spotless.
Meanwhile, you can get the Impala for only $21,000, which makes sense, considering the car is fitted with the base and lowest power engine available in 1962. A V8 engine would have substantially increased the price.
The car is parked close to Virginia City, and you should be able to drive it home on its wheels, considering its condition. The mileage was not revealed, but contact the owner to discuss all the details before making an offer.