Dusty & Rusty – 1965 Chevrolet Impala

The Impala name was introduced by Chevrolet for 1958 as top of the line trim package for the Bel Air. The following year it became its own model and thrived as a full full size car through the early 1960s. The Impala was available with numerous options, including an SS package that was introduced in 1961. Jump forward to 1965 and we’ll witness the birth of the fourth generation Impala, which is what we have for sale here on Craigslist near Nashville, TN. This 1965 Chevrolet Impala is claimed to be a true barn find, and it certainly looks that way. At $9,500 could this once graceful antelope be your next main street prancer?

There are limited pictures of this Impala, but it is appealing for several reasons, the first being that it’s a four speed car. While the Hurst shifter was originally connected to a 327, it’s said a 350 can now be found under the hood. Without the original engine, this car makes a great candidate for a resto-mod that would be a great cruiser all summer long — especially if you can get the factory equipped AC to blow cold again (compressor not included)! This car has numerous other options that would have made it a great driver in its day. Power steering and power brakes are both listed, as well as factory tinted glass, which compliments that AC nicely.

While the condition of the interior is unknown, it can be assumed it will at least need some freshening up. With plenty of OEM components and interior kits available, it shouldn’t be too difficult of a task. Some fresh bucket seats and new carpet will go a long way in a dusty vehicle. What is nice about this car is that the seller appears to have done a bit of reassembly for the future buyer. The “find” pictures show no grille or headlights, but after a thorough wash, they’ve been added. Turns out this car looks pretty good after all!

After sitting for 28 years, this 1965 Chevrolet Impala is going to need some serious TLC, but it deserves it. The price is a hair over Hagerty’s price valuation for a car in “fair” condition, but given the opportunity to negotiate, you could have a great build on your hands for a pretty decent price. If you were to park this in your driveway, what direction would you take it? Perhaps an SS clone?