1962 Chevrolet Impala Series Series 1700 6 Cyl Convertible

For the early 1960s, Chevrolet offered a performance package in a full-sized car that was fitted with a long list of factory options and powered by the legendary big-block Chevrolet 409. The Turbo-Fire V8 engine displaced 409 cubic inches and offered 409 horsepower. The Turbo-Fire V8 engine featured a twin four-barrel carburetor and high-lift cam, solid valve lifters, and a lightweight valve displacement of 409 cubic inches. This option set the buyer back an additional $484.

This example has a Borg-Warner T-10 four-speed manual floor-shift transmission with four-wheel drum brakes. A three-speed Powerglide automatic was also available, along with a variety of engines ranging from 4 to 6, to 8 cylinders. The list of body styles included a sedan, hardtop sport sedan, hardtop sport coupe, convertible, and a six or nine-passenger station wagon.

The Chevrolet Impala convertible had a base price of around $3,275 in 1962. The 'Super Sport' or 'SS' package added another $53.80, which included the exterior badging, simulated machine-turned trim inserts, spinner-style wheel covers, interior grab handle, and locking center console. For an extra $102.25, the buyer would receive matching vinyl front bucket seats finished in the color of their choosing.

This example is painted in Roman Red with a matching interior and a black top. It was given a full restoration a few years ago and freshened in 2006-2007.

In 2009, this 1962 Chevrolet Impala 409/409 SS Convertible was offered for sale at the Sports & Classics of Monterey auction in Monterey, California presented by RM Auctions. The car was estimated to sell for $75,000-$100,000 and was offered without reserve. The lot was sold for the sum of $57,750 including the buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Dec 2009