Impala Convertible

Vehicle details

Introduced in autumn 1958, this Impala adopted a low, broad body with dramatically horizontal rear fins and cat-eye-shaped tail lamps, creating a clear break from its predecessor. It was the generation in which the Impala expanded beyond upper-level Bel Air bodies into a separate range of body types. This five-seat convertible used a folding roof and two doors. It retained front and rear seats and a long rear trunk while offering open-air full-size motoring. The base V8 for 1959 was a 283-cubic-inch overhead-valve engine. A two-barrel carburetor supported 185 gross horsepower, with a three-speed manual driving the rear wheels. Automatic transmissions and more powerful V8 specifications were also available. A 119-inch wheelbase and wide body supported generous cabin dimensions and a long rear section. It reflected an era in which full-size passenger cars combined everyday transport with conspicuous design character, marking an important step in the Impala becoming a central Chevrolet nameplate.

Production years

1958–

Illustrated model year

1959

Body

Convertible

Powertrain

Petrol