Imagine stumbling upon a forgotten classic car from the 1960s that's been languishing in storage for nearly four decades – a true testament to how time can turn potential into a dusty mystery. But here's the kicker: this isn't just any vehicle; it's a 1964 Chevrolet Impala Super Sport that's begging for a second chance. And this is the part most people miss – the story behind it could ignite heated debates among car enthusiasts and collectors alike. Let's unpack this intriguing tale together, step by step, so even if you're new to the world of classic cars, you'll grasp why this find has everyone talking.
First off, let's set the scene with a bit of history to understand why this Impala SS is such a standout. The Super Sport, or SS for short, has been a legendary badge in Chevrolet's lineup since debuting back in 1961 as an affordable upgrade package priced at just $53.80. Over the years, it evolved, packing more punch with larger engines that made it a beast on the road. For beginners, think of the Impala SS as Chevrolet's way of saying, 'We can make this family sedan feel like a muscle car.' By 1964, it had grown into its own dedicated series, and demand skyrocketed – automakers produced nearly 200,000 SS models that year, far outpacing standard Impalas. The coupe, or hardtop version, was the crowd favorite, making up about 155,000 of the total 536,000 Impala hardtops sold. But wait, there's more: around 30,000 folks opted for the convertible, which cost a premium – at least $3,196 versus $2,947 for the hardtop with the SS package – just to enjoy that open-air thrill.
Now, engine choices were flexible back then; you could equip an SS with anything from a modest six-cylinder to something truly ferocious. While it might seem odd to pair a muscle car badge like SS with a lowly six-cylinder, some original buyers did just that, proving authenticity can come in unexpected forms. Still, the real gems are those with bigger powerplants, especially the coveted big-block V8s that just fit these beasts like a custom glove. As one article notes (linked here for more context: https://www.autoevolution.com/news/1965-chevrolet-impala-ss-survivor-still-owns-the-san-diego-streets-83k-miles-and-counting-260993.html), big-blocks elevate an Impala SS from ordinary to extraordinary, making them rarer and more sought-after. In 1964, the pinnacle was the 409 cubic-inch monster, available in two flavors: a base 409-horsepower model with dual exhaust and a high-lift cam, or the pricier 425-horsepower version with dual four-barrel carburetors, setting you back an extra $484.
But here's where it gets controversial – shifting gears to this specific car, which has sparked online buzz for all the right (and wrong) reasons. Picture this: a guy buys this 1964 Impala SS in 1982, takes it for a single drive, parks it, and then... forgets it exists. It was meant for a full restoration, but life got in the way, and under a new owner in 1982, it slipped into obscurity. Fast-forward to now, and it's listed on eBay as a project car ready for someone bold enough to tackle it. The seller, seemingly rediscovering it like a buried treasure, admits they don't have all the details nailed down, but everything points to this being a legitimate SS worth the effort.
Diving into its current state, the photos tell a story of neglect that words alone can't capture. Rust is evident everywhere, suggesting a comprehensive overhaul is needed – from bodywork to mechanics. The seller claims the undersides are 'acceptable' with just a few rusty spots, but here's a tip for beginners: always get it inspected on a lift to uncover hidden damage, as corrosion can lurk in sneaky places. Some parts might look missing at first glance, but don't panic – extras like chrome trim are stashed in the trunk, and air conditioning bits are reportedly nearby, so it could very well be a complete kit. That said, the engine compartment holds a surprise: instead of the dream big-block, it's a small-block V8, possibly a 327 cubic-inch unit with a two-barrel carburetor. The seller isn't 100% sure, so sending a mechanic for a peek is non-negotiable. For context, while a six-cylinder or the base Turbo Fire would be even less exciting, the 327 strikes a solid balance of power and drivability – not the rocket fuel of a 409, but reliable enough to keep unless you've got a big-block upgrade waiting in the wings.
This project isn't for the faint of heart; it's described aptly by the seller as a 'project car that's been sitting since purchase and a single drive.' Restoring a Super Sport demands respect for its heritage, and this one will require elbow grease in every corner. And this is the part most people miss – the value debate. With 1,500 views in just 24 hours on eBay and 174 watchers, it's clear there's interest. The highest bid has hit $6,100 in a no-reserve auction, meaning it sells to the top offer, no minimum. Parked in Arkansas, you'll need a trailer for transport, and with the listing ending in three days, time is ticking to reach out for more info.
But let's stir the pot a bit: is this car a hidden bargain or a money pit? Some might argue that settling for a small-block engine undermines the SS spirit, suggesting it's not 'true' to the model's glory days. Others could counter that originality matters most, and restoring it as-is preserves history. What do you think – should buyers hold out for big-block perfection, or embrace the underdog story? Do you believe this Impala's worth the investment, or is it destined to remain forgotten? Share your opinions, agreements, or disagreements in the comments – I'd love to hear your takes on classic car controversies!
