Gateway Classic Cars Houston Showroom is proud to present this 1965
Chevrolet Impala SS restomod. This fully re-engineered 1965 Impala
SS blends classic style with modern performance. At the heart is a
fresh CHEVY BBC 496ci (505hp) Stage 6.0 engine built on a Dart Big
M block - an aftermarket block engineered for maximum durability
and strength. Dart's Big M blocks feature precision machining,
superior strength, and priority main oiling to ensure reliability
and power. Inside the block, we've installed Wiseco forged pistons.
Unlike cast pistons, Wiseco's high-strength forged aluminum pistons
are lighter and stronger, allowing higher compression and revving
without failure. In practice this means the Impala's engine can
handle serious horsepower and abuse while remaining rock-solid.The
fuel system is modernized with an Edelbrock Pro-Flo electronic fuel
injection kit, replacing the old carburetor. EFI ensures each
cylinder gets the precise fuel metering it needs under all
conditions, delivering instant throttle response and smoother power
delivery. It provides crisp, solid shifts and a reliable connection
between the big-block's power and the rear wheels. Complementing
this is a Ram precision-machined billet steel flywheel. The
heavy-duty Ram flywheel adds useful inertia for smooth launch and
low-speed drivability. Paired with a high-performance twin-disc
clutch kit from McLeod Racing, this drivetrain launches the Impala
with confidence. The McLeod twin-clutch design doubles the friction
surface area, allowing enormous grip without the extra weight of a
single huge clutch. As Motor Trend notes, a McLeod twin-disc clutch
delivers "mega grip without the extra weight" - it's about 10
pounds lighter than stock, yet it grips more firmly and requires
less pedal effort. In short, this engine-and-transmission package
lets you "get on it" with a light, positive clutch feel while the
forged internals and billet components handle the abuse.The chassis
of this Impala has been completely reworked for modern handling. Up
front and out back the suspension uses fully adjustable coil-over
shock-and-spring assemblies. Unlike the old leaf springs and
shocks, coil overs allow precise control of ride height and
damping, so the car's body is flat and planted in corners.
Coil-over systems are prized in performance builds because they are
"fully tunable" for both spring preload and shock valving,
delivering "better geometry" and a firmer, more controlled ride
than stock setups. With the adjustable springs, you can lower the
car for a lower center of gravity and stiffen it for aggressive
street driving, yet still retain comfort on the highway. The
suspension arms themselves have been upgraded to heavy-duty tubular
control arms. These modern arms are made from high-strength steel
tubing, making them lighter and stronger than the original
stamped-steel A-arms. The tubular design also corrects the outdated
geometry of the stock setup, allowing more negative camber and
optimal caster angles. In fact, QA1 - a leading suspension
manufacturer - explains that tubular control arms reduce unsprung
weight and allow modern alignment settings (like extra negative
camber gain) that vastly improve handling. In practice this means
better turn-in grip and stability under load.Inside, the Impala
balances classic character with driver comfort. The bucket seats
and door panels are trimmed in durable black cloth, accented by
supple black leather in key areas for a touch of luxury. This
combination was chosen for both its classic muscle-car appearance
and its comfort. Modern conveniences abound: factory-style air
conditioning keeps the cabin cool in summer, while a retro-styled
AM/FM radio and premium sound system lets you enjoy music in cruise
mode. Power steering, power brakes, and power door locks make
everyday driving easy and comfortable. Even the tilt-adjustable
steering wheel lets drivers of any size find the ideal position.
Custom alloy wheels with modern wide radial tires add a distinctive
look and grip, and a comfortable front bench and rear seat ensure
the Impala is just as functional as it is powerful. In short, the
interior feels like a well-equipped classic: vintage charm with all
the modern usability features you expect in a high-end restomod.The
end result is an Impala SS that drives like a modern performance
sedan but sounds and feels like old-school muscle. Throttle input
is met with instant response from the EFI'd 505ci V8, and the
exhaust bellow combines classic big-block roar with seamless idle
and midrange due to modern tuning. The hydraulic McLeod twin-disc
clutch, paired with the balanced Ram flywheel, allows the engine to
rev freely off the stop but also gives smooth engagement when
launching - you can feel the full torque of the motor without any
hesitation or chattering. Shifts through the robust Tremec
five-speed are positive and precise, thanks to a short-throw
shifter and modern linkage.What truly sets this Impala apart is how
the upgraded engine and suspension work together. The stiffened
chassis and coil-overs mean that when you floor it or dive into a
corner, the body remains flat and predictable. The tires bite the
pavement, and the steering is sharp and direct - far removed from
the vague feel of the original. Combined with those massive Wilwood
brakes, the car begs to be driven hard. Experienced drivers will
appreciate that this classic no longer softly wallows through
curves; instead it rewards aggressive inputs with true muscle-car
thrills. Even at highway speeds, the car is stable and controlled,
not only thanks to the suspension but also the 50-year newer tires
and modern alignment.In summary, this 1965 Impala SS resto-mod
blends raw power with refinement. Each upgrade was chosen to make
the car as drivable and reliable as possible. The result is a true
high-performance classic: one that you can hop in for a leisurely
Sunday cruise or take on a winding back road and wring out its
legs. It evokes the visceral excitement of vintage muscle - the
rumble, the quick throttle response - but it behaves like a modern
sports car. It's a thrilling, instant classic that delivers modern
handling, braking, and comfort without losing any of that legendary
1960s attitude. With powerful polished V8 under the hood, precise
suspension, and thoughtful amenities inside, this Impala SS is
ready to excite any enthusiast who loves a blend of nostalgia and
capability.
Vehicle Details
1965 Chevrolet Impala
Listing ID:CC-2010495
Price:$114,000
Location:O'Fallon, Illinois
Year:1965
Make:Chevrolet
Model:Impala
Exterior Color:Blue
Interior Color:Black
Transmission:Manual
Odometer:8517
Stock Number:HOU3027
VIN:GCCHOU3027
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