For Sale at Auction: 1961 Chevrolet Impala in Las Vegas, Nevada

Chassis No. 11867S212396

For the first time in 1961, the Chevrolet Impala could be optioned with the now-renowned Super Sport package, fully transforming the marque's flagship into a high-performance powerhouse. The full SS package (RPO 240), introduced late that model year, included an arsenal of options, including a choice of three powerful engine options as well as power brakes, power steering, heavy duty springs, Positraction rear end, sintered metallic brake linings, upgraded tires, special wheel covers, a 7,000-rpm Sun tachometer, and "SS" trim badges throughout.

This 1961 Chevrolet Impala SS Convertible is finished in Ermine White with red trim accents and a white powered convertible top over a red interior with contrasting white accents. It is equipped with the highly desirable and most powerful 348 cu-in Super Turbo-Thrust V8, which produces 350 horsepower through a Borg Warner T-10 four-speed manual transmission. As indicated by its included window sticker, the Impala is further equipped with spinner hubcaps, power windows, pushbutton radio, two-speed wipers, padded dash, seatbelts, and a deluxe heater.

Built in St. Louis, Missouri, this well-optioned Impala SS was ordered new by Therron Taylor through Don Judd Chevrolet in Hooker, Oklahoma. It was traded back to the dealership in the spring of 1963 before being purchased by fellow local Raymond Hooker. The Impala traded hands a few times, notably to the William Prizer Collection in Nashua, New Hampshire. In 2002, the decision was made to commission a full body-off, ground up restoration by Sterling Classic Auto Restoration in Wichita, Kansas, that amounted to more than $125,000. Upon inspection by a Broad Arrow Car Specialist, the complete restoration is noted for its excellent quality, extending to the engine bay that has been fully detailed to show standards and its red-oxide floors. It is now offered with 1,998 miles recorded since its nut-and-bolt, body-off restoration, as well as its original owner's manuals and sales literature.

Spectacularly restored to an exceptional standard in a striking color combination, this 1961 Chevrolet Impala SS Convertible presents as one of the finest-restored examples of its kind. Coupled with an array of premium factory options including its highly desirable 348cu-in Super Turbo-Thrust V8, this Impala is as ready to cruise the boulevard as it is the concours lawn-stealing hearts wherever it drives.