1963 Chevrolet Impala Hardtop
More than 700,000 V8 Impalas were built in 1963 making them one of the most common cars on the road at the time, especially if you consider that they had big numbers in '62 and '64 also. And it's probably why it's one of the most popular "hobby cars" sixty years later. We've seen every iteration, from autocross, drag cars, resto-mods, low riders and of course, stock configuration. They're just the right size and there's a huge enthusiast's community that keeps the legendary 60's Impalas alive.
For consignment, a 1963 Chevrolet Impala showing 88,733 unverifiable miles and a 327ci V8 under the hood. A quintessential 60's car with lean, low panels in a straight line and the symmetrical layout of hood, roof, and trunk all the same length. The teardrop rear wheel cutout that hovers over the top third of the tire aids in the iconically sleek profile.
Exterior
Two stage Bright Red paint gleams evenly across the panels, highlighting panel folds and edges, such as the protruding spear that starts on the front quarter panel, becomes the upper edge of the rear wheel opening, then trails back and widens to match the edge of the chrome bumper. Spectacular! We could write volumes on the tail of the car which begins at broad shoulders that blend into a straight decklid, highlighted by not one, but two antennas, one on each side. The inset rear fascia is contrasting silver and home to the unmistakable triple tail light design. A straight chrome bumper is ribbed, as if to draw attention to the license plate, and on this car, angle cut straight chrome tips shoot out from below. The double headlight face is familiar too, and the headlight bezels rise above the top of the light which gives them a distinct look. To complement that great brightwork on the car, 15-inch chromed Chevy Rally wheels with faux knock-offs present beautifully and are wrapped in 70 series tires. Imperfections include some paint run and a raised line under the paint. The rest is in fantastic shape.
Interior
Square patterned red vinyl door panels are augmented by buttons in the corners and immediately transforms us to 1963 in a look that finds its way to clothes, furniture, and walls. These buttons reappear on the seat backs which give way to patterned cloth inserts surrounded by red vinyl on the split bench front seat, their metal shells adding some structure and some shine. The rear bench matches the pattern, dipping in the middle to make room for the Impala logo and stainless design piece and it's all in great shape. Up front, the two spoke steering wheel exhibits some patina and leads to a clean dashboard with horizontal instrument panel that spans the upper section. The lower panel glistens with a stainless plate housing various knobs and the AM radio. A triple gauge has been added below the dash to monitor engine conditions and the passenger dashboard is a sweeping cove of seamless red over a metal glove box door. Red loop carpet is in excellent shape as is the white headliner above. In the trunk, gray textured paint is protected by fitted black mats including an embroidered branded mat in the middle.
Drivetrain
Under the hood, a very clean V8 measuring 327ci according to our consignor and topped with an Edelbrock intake manifold and 4-barrel carburetor. Behind it, a Powerglide 2-speed automatic transmission is sending power to the back wheels and 3.36 gears. A gold power booster lets us know that the drums on all four wheels are power assisted.
Undercarriage
Very clean underneath with a complete lack of surface rust and wearing a uniformly black finish. There are some oil drips on the oil pan and transmission pan, some extra grease on the knuckles, but nothing of major concern to our eyes. The dual exhaust travels through glasspack style mufflers before traveling to the back and suspension consists of coil springs up front and a 3-link, coil springs, and a panhard bar out back.
Drive-Ability
We're loving the stock configuration of the interior, no aftermarket seats or updated steering wheel. Just the real thing and that's what this car represents. The engine starts right up and up and emits a healthy growl from the tailpipes. The 2-speed automatic sets us on our way around the test loop where visibility is ample with full glass sides, a high windshield, and wide rear window. The car exhibits good acceleration, great handling, and excellent braking. Only the clock and radio don't work, but all other functional items operated as they should. While Classic Auto Mall represents that these functions were working at the time of our test drive, we cannot guarantee these functions will be working at the time of your purchase.
Make like an antelope. Or gazelle. Or impala. And sprint on over to Classic Auto Mall to throw your hat in the ring for this one. This car is not only red but is likely to be red hot on the market as Impalas leave the mall as if being chased by a pride of lions, and by that we mean quickly. Impalas, (the ungulate, not the car), can run 56 mph, but your phone can reach the mall in a matter of seconds. Done reading? Green light for this red beauty!
31847B247368
3-1963
18-Impala
47-2 Door Hardtop
B-Baltimore, MD Assy Plant
247368-Sequential Unit Number
Classic Auto Mall is home to more than 1,000 classic and collectible vehicles for sale via consignment in a climate controlled 336,000-square foot showroom (that's more than 8 acres!). The largest single location consignment dealer of classic and collectible vehicles in the country is located in Morgantown, Pennsylvania, just 1-hour west of Philadelphia off Exit 298 of the I-76 Pennsylvania Turnpike. For more information visit www.classicautomall.com or call us at (888) 227-0914. Contact us anytime for more information or to come see the vehicle in person. There is no guarantee of mileage. A $299 Dealer Administrative fee is not included in the advertised price.
With so many great cars, you know we have a lot to talk about, and we do that each week on the Classic Auto Mall Podcast with host Stewart Howden. Stewart discusses new inventory as well as trends in consignments and car prices, while interviewing celebrities and automotive professionals about amazing cars and their history. Tune in each week to the Classic Auto Mall Podcast wherever you enjoy listening. You can also watch on YouTube!
