Selected generation models, including overseas specifications
Vehicle details
The Impala first appeared as a Chevrolet production-car name in the 1958 passenger-car range introduced in autumn 1957. Initially offered as two upper-level Bel Air two-door bodies, it became the starting point of the long-running Impala model family. The Sport Coupe combined a low fixed roof with a long rear deck, giving it proportions distinct from the regular Bel Air coupe. Front and rear seats and a separate trunk emphasized its full-size personal-car character. The 1958 283-cubic-inch overhead-valve V8 used a two-barrel carburetor and produced 185 gross horsepower in standard specification. A three-speed manual drove the rear wheels, with automatic transmissions and other engine specifications also available. The wide body, multiple rear lamps and elaborate exterior detailing reflected the optimistic design of contemporary American full-size cars. This was the historically significant first production generation that brought the Impala name beyond the show-car stage into customer use.
- Production years
- 1957–
- Illustrated model year
- 1958
- Body
- Coupe
- Powertrain
- Petrol
283 cu in V8 manual · 1958 US
- Development / body code
- 1847
- Powertrain
- Petrol
- Displacement
- 283 cu in
- Length
- 209.1 in
- Width
- 77.7 in
- Height
- 58.1 in, unloaded
- Wheelbase
- 117.5 in
- Engine
- OHV V8, two-barrel carburetor
- Maximum power
- 185 gross bhp @ 4600 rpm
- Maximum torque
- 275 gross lb-ft @ 2400 rpm
- Transmission
- 3-speed manual
- Drivetrain
- Rear-wheel drive
- Compression ratio
- 8.5:1