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The Impala
What’s In a Name?
The Impala began it infamous journey through history at the 1956 GM Motorama car show,
when Chevy first introduced its new concept car. The car was named after the African
gazelle-like Impala.
Super seller!
The production didn’t begin until 1958, when it was introduced as a model of the
Bel-Air. In only its second year of production, the Impala was Chevrolet’s
best-selling car, and just one year later became America’s top seller.
Changes!!
The “SS” & 409
During 1960-1964, the Impala was modified and re-styled slightly each year. In 1961
the Impala had the option of the Super Sport, or the “SS.” That year Chevy
also introduced the 409cid engine that was fueled through a 4-barrel carburetor to put out
a hunk of 400 horsepower, and had some outer space and aerodynamic influenced changes,
such as removing the tail fins and limiting the chrome trim giving the Impala a more
streamlined and spaceship-like appearance.
That Chevy 409.
1963 saw further options, one including a dual 4-barrel carbed 409 that put out an
astronomical 425 horsepower. This had influenced The Beach Boys song
“409.”
This is the Last Time! ?
In 1986 the Impala was discontinued due to the popularity of the Caprice, only to be
resurrected in 1994 for a very special, limited-production run. In 1996 Chevy had
announced once again the Impala was going to be discontinued. However, at the fans
request, Chevy started production once again in 2000. The Impala has been around for
5 decades now, and it appears it will be around for many more (at our request)!!!!!!
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