1966 Chevrolet Impala
In celebration of their 50th year of production, Chevrolet introduced the Impala. Designs were changing, moving away from traditional tail fins being replaced by deep sculpted rear panels, dual headlamps, larger "greenhouse" passenger compartments, and upgrades in suspension and engine options. Interior finishes such as color keyed door panels, and brushed aluminum began at this time as well. Through generations 1 to 3, styling got sleeker, passenger compartments lower, and emphasis was on a look of a car in motion, when it was sitting still.
Flashy muscle cars are fun, and polished customs are nice, but for some folks, there's nothing better than a well-done cruiser. No gimmicks, no frills and no drama; just sun and fun - LOTS of fun. This exceptionally clean Impala is a classy stunner that mixes 283 cubic inches of power with a 2-speed Powerglide, some new upgrading, and tasteful aesthetics. Oh, and did I mention it also can go in a straight line in not too shabby style as well?
Exterior
This classic design uses sculpted steel and chrome accenting to its advantage and creates an iconic year for the Impala. Dual headlights flanking a nice egg crate grille, clean shining bumper below and we then see miles of red covered steel panels. Tastefully breaking up the red are side spears, window surrounds, wheel well brite-work, and a rocker trim. These and the mirror and handles make up this "more door" sport with slight misaligned door panels, but overall good gaps. To the rear where the 3-taillight configuration has been imbedded into the rear panel, wraps slightly around into the rear quarter, and is framed on the bottom by the clean bumper and dual tipped tailpipes. Cragar 15-inch polished wheels are all around and 215/70R15's are upfront and larger 275/60R15's on the rear.
Interior
A very clean nicely restored interior greets us with a swing of the doors, on whose panels are black vinyl with embossing, clean cranks and handles and a textured lower panel. The dual benches stretch from door to door and look like they are new. Also, in black vinyl they have a nifty embossed horizontal panel on each setback complete with red piping and Chevrolet crossed flag badges. The original looking dash is there as is the steering wheel, which has a tachometer mounted to the column. Just a few scrapes are here but mostly clean. Deep black unstained carpet floods the floors, and a tight headliner floats above and has a few smudges on it, but interior lights are working perfectly.
Drivetrain
Wedged into a clean restored engine bay is a 283ci V8 complete with Edelbrock 4-barrel carburetor and intake. A 2-speed Powerglide automatic transmission is on back of the mill, and it throws power back to a 10-bolt rear. M/T polished valve covers add a nice touch of bling and headers adorned engine.
Undercarriage
An accumulation of surface rust, patina paint, and road dirt are seen on this undercarriage, however nothing remarkable as to structural integrity compromise or problematic. Independent coil springs are the suspension for the front, and 4 link with coil springs are on the rear. Drum brakes are all around, and a Cherry bomb dual exhaust snakes across the undercarriage.
Drive-Ability
A turn of the key and we are running like a champ with a nice throaty exhaust sound. The transmission shifts smoothly, and one can feel the power as you pick up speed. Steering is tight, brakes are solid, and it was an overall enjoyable experience with a smooth ride. All is functioning well on this car.
A nice job with some screaming red paint, good brite-work and chrome, and some power to boot. Or should I say put your boot into! Come on down to Classic Auto Mall and this car will have you seeing red.
VIN Decode
164396F187405
1-Chevrolet
64-Impala V8
39-4 Door Sport Sedan
6-1966
F-Flint, MI Assy Plant
187405-Sequential Unit Number
Trim Tag
03D-4th Week March
ST 66 16439-1966 Impala Sport Sedan
BODY FL 212615-Flint Body #
TR 866A-Fawn Cloth Bench
PAINT V-Cameo Beige
ACC 4F-Convenience Group
Classic Auto Mall is a 336,000-square foot classic and special interest automobile showroom, featuring over 450 vehicles for sale with showroom space for up to 1,000 vehicles. Also, a 400 vehicle barn find collection is on display.
This vehicle is located in our showroom in Morgantown, Pennsylvania, conveniently located just 1-hour west of Philadelphia on the I-76 Pennsylvania Turnpike. The website is www.classicautomall.com and our phone number is (888) 227-0914. Please contact us anytime for more information or to come see the vehicle in person.