Vehicle Description
STK 2980 1961 Chevrolet Impala
STK 2980 1961 Chevrolet Impala
Detroit was producing performance cars long before someone coined
the phrase 'muscle car'. By 1961, the Chevrolet Impala was maturing
into one of these classic models. Chevrolet debuted the full-size
Super Sport Impala in 1961.
It is said that only 453 cars were optioned with the S/S package -
RPO240. At $53.80, this option was a bargain. The factory SS
package offered both trim and performance features including S/S
logos on side moldings and trunk lid, spinner hubcaps, 7,000 RPM
tachometer and 'Corvette-style' passenger grab-bar. Mandatory
mechanical upgrades included a 348ci or 409ci engine, larger brakes
and stronger springs. Our beautiful Impala 'Bubbletop' had a full
restoration in 2003. It has all of the S/S features, but lacks a
build sheet to absolutely verify the S/S status. This 2-door
hardtop has had one single stage respray of Ermine White that is
very nice, but is showing a little age. All of the chrome/stainless
is very good. Inside is an invitation to ride in style. A mostly
original interior features factory cloth/vinyl seats, door panels
and new carpeting - all complemented by a nicely detailed stock
dash w/8,000 RPM tach. There is a factory AM radio (works), rare
factory air conditioning (w/rear window 'Air Conditioned' label)
that the owner states has been upgraded to R-134, tinted glass and
a beautiful Impala wheel. Another rare option, power windows, work
beautifully. According to the VIN number, our Impala came factory
equipped with a V8 (that is all the '61 VIN defines). Horsepower is
furnished by a 348ci "Turbo-Thrust" W-code - the early version of
the famous '409'. (We have no way of knowing if this is the
original motor, but everything appears perfectly authentic.) The
W-code is equipped with a 3x2 Rochester intake and a relatively
mild cam. It is likely that this was the optional 9.5:1 version
that outputs 280hp and 355 lb/ft of torque. Cooling is managed by
an aluminum radiator. This car was delivered with the optional
Muncie 4-speed transmission that has been upgraded to a Tremec
5-speed manual. The chassis is equipped with power steering, large
power 4-wheel drum brakes and front/rear sway bars. REV polished
alloy wheels (18"F/20"R) mount BFGoodrich G-Force performance
radials. If you appreciate 'old-school' BowTie performance and
sound, you should consider this Impala 'Bubbletop'. It is a stunner
that must be driven to be appreciated. ALL VEHICLES SOLD "AS
IS".
