Picture this: a legendary 1964 Chevrolet Impala Super Sport, a true icon of American muscle car history, gathering dust in obscurity after being bought in 1982, driven just once, and then completely forgotten. It's a story that tugs at the heartstrings of any car enthusiast, isn't it? But here's where it gets intriguing – this forgotten gem is now up for grabs on eBay, desperately seeking a new owner willing to give it the TLC it so richly deserves. Let's dive deeper into what makes this Impala SS a potential dream project, and explore why some might see it as a hidden treasure, while others debate if it's worth the hassle. Stick around, because this tale has twists that might just surprise you.
The Impala Super Sport, or SS for short, has long been a coveted name in the Chevrolet lineup, evolving into a symbol of power and style since its introduction. For beginners, think of the SS as a special performance package that transformed a standard family car into something with extra muscle – bigger engines, sporty touches, and that unmistakable flair. It first hit the scene in 1961 as an affordable $53.80 add-on, but by the mid-1960s, it had grown into something truly special. Each year brought enhancements, like more robust powertrains, making these cars stand out even more. And this is the part most people miss: a big-block engine, with its larger displacement and raw power, pairs perfectly with an Impala SS, elevating it far beyond a regular model. As an example, just look at surviving 1965 Impala SS examples that still roam the streets with over 80,000 miles, proving their durability. That's why SS variants are often more prized by collectors – they're not just cars; they're beasts ready to roar.
By 1964, the Impala SS had its big moment, becoming its own dedicated series. Popularity soared, with nearly 200,000 units rolling off the assembly line that year alone. The hardtop body style was the crowd-pleaser, making up about 155,000 of the total 536,000 Impala hardtops produced. Yet, around 30,000 brave souls opted for the convertible, even though it cost extra – starting at $3,196 versus the hardtop's $2,947 with the SS package. It shows how allure sometimes trumps practicality, doesn't it? And here's a fun fact: buyers could choose from the full engine menu, including the mighty 409 cubic-inch powerhouse that topped the charts with 409 horsepower in base form or a whopping 425 with dual four-barrel carbs, all for an additional $484. For clarity, these engines packed serious punch, thanks to features like dual exhaust and high-lift cams, making them ideal for speed enthusiasts.
But – and this could spark some debate – not every SS was built equal. While a six-cylinder under the hood might seem odd for a performance badge, it's possible and even authentic for some originals. Still, purists covet those with bigger powerplants, especially big-blocks, as they deliver that visceral thrill. Would you settle for less, or is the ultimate SS only one with maximum displacement? It's a point that divides opinions among collectors.
Now, onto this specific Impala: it's very much a 'project' awaiting rebirth, one that's endured decades of neglect since its 1982 purchase and single joyride. The owner, seemingly rediscovering it like a long-lost artifact, parked it and let it slip from memory, with plans for a full overhaul that never materialized. The photos tell the stark truth – rust and wear are evident, suggesting major repairs across the board. The seller notes the underside has 'a few rust spots' and deems it 'acceptable,' but as a pro tip for newcomers, always inspect thoroughly; lifting it on a hoist is the only way to uncover hidden corrosion. Some parts might look missing, but hope springs eternal – extras like chrome pieces and air conditioning bits are reportedly stashed in the trunk, potentially making it a complete kit.
Engine-wise, it's not the big-block dream many might envision. Instead, it's equipped with a small-block – possibly a 327 cubic-inch unit sporting a two-barrel carb, according to the seller's best guess. For those new to this, a small-block is Chevrolet's smaller V8 engine family, reliable and powerful in its own right, offering a sweet spot of torque and speed without the thirst of the biggest beasts. Sure, it might underwhelm compared to a 409, but it's a step up from a six-cylinder or the basic Turbo Fire V8, providing solid performance for the era. Unless you've got a 409 spare, keeping the original 327 could be the smart, authentic move for restoration. As an example, many restored classics retain their factory engines for that genuine feel, balancing cost and history.
In a nutshell, this Impala is exactly what the seller describes: a dormant project car, collecting cobwebs since its brief debut drive. It's not a walk in the park – Super Sports demand respect and proper care to shine again. With its current buzz on eBay, attracting 1,500 views in a day and 174 watchlists, it's clear people are excited. The leading bid stands at $6,100, and as a no-reserve auction, it's bound to find a taker soon. Located in Arkansas, transport will require a trailer given its state, and with the listing ending in three days, time's ticking to reach out for more details.
But here's the controversy that might have you scratching your head: is reviving a forgotten classic like this worth the investment, especially with a 'lesser' small-block engine? Some argue it's a steal for the potential glory, a chance to breathe life into history. Others might say it's a money pit, questioning if modern tastes favor flashier restorations or even electric alternatives. And this is the part most people miss – what if keeping it as-is, a time capsule of neglect, holds more value than a perfect rebuild? Do you think this Impala deserves a full restoration, or should it be left as a testament to forgotten dreams? Is the small-block a deal-breaker, or does its originality make it irreplaceable? Share your views in the comments – I'm genuinely curious to hear agreements, disagreements, and your own car stories!
