1965 Chevrolet Impala Convertible

Description

Beautiful, dependable '65 Chevy Impala Convertible, is both fun to drive and a high performerWe bought this car several years ago from eBay out of Kalamazoo from a part-time classic car dealer and had it transported to SW Ohio. In the years we've owned it, we invested to make it dependable, safe and fun to drive. We've taken it to drive in movies, grocery runs, holiday parades, homecoming and prom dances, sporting events, etc. We've never been stranded and had a blast with the car. Our kids are now older and the car sits in our garage way too much. It's time to let someone else enjoy it. This is not a show car, but could easily become one with some trim piece replacements. If you are looking for a clean, sharp, dependable and high performance, fun to drive convertible, this is the car for you.
Here are the upgrades we've done:
- Motor: The original 283 was already swapped out when we bought it. It was replaced with a 350 with a 4-bolt main (engine code V0111TRH, stamping #3970010, looks like it came from a 1971 truck). We had a local mechanic who specializes on old GM engines rebuild the motor. He said the 350 block was in perfect shape, said pistons were flat top, marked STD and has a standard 4.0 bore.
He also installed:
New cam (472 and 466 lift and 214 and 244 on the duration)New intake (Edelbrock)Vortec Heads pulled from 2000 Suburban, cleaned up, bored and polishedRebuilt Quadrajet Carburetor (XXX A5 Z8 manufactured January 1975)JEGS headersAftermarket (Chevy branded) gauges for oil pressure, coolant temperature.New alternator
- Transmission: He also replaced the original 2-speed Powerglide tranny with a T350 that he rebuilt (serial #8641711 with a lock up torque converter).
- Cooling system: He replaced the original radiator (which could no longer keep up with higher performance engine, especially in parades, idling) with a larger aluminum system with dual fans. System now cools motor perfectly, even idling in hot summer weather for long period of time.
- Rear end is 3:36.
After the rebuild and the new transmission, performance on the car became incredible, so much that you need to lay off the accelerator as it gets scary fast.
We also took the car to another general purpose repair shop where a family friend replaced all brake lines, emergency brake cables, drums, rotors, etc. and replaced original single bowl master with a dual bowl master. Our goal was to make sure the car was 100% safe to take our young family for cruises. He replaced the heater core which was leaking a little bit. He also installed a Flowmaster dual exhaust, gave us another little boost on performance and the sound is incredible (see video).
I then installed 6 new seat belts all around (only came with 2 original seat belts up front). I then completely pulled and disassembled the dashboard and had parts professionally painted, clear plastic polished or replaced, and replaced missing knobs, lighting, etc. I also installed new stereo speakers front and back, but ones that it into original bolt pattern. I then installed a power amp in the trunk, and a stereo jack in glove box so you can either listen to original working AM radio, or plug in an MP3 player (or smart phone). Sound system both looks original and sounds great.
We had the convertible top completely and professionally replaced, and the convertible hydraulic system completely replaced as well. Also bought boot cover for when the top is down.
Replaced clock with period-original working clock (not quartz), works great.
Installed under dash hazard lights (safety).
There was a little bit of surface rust in the trunk, we had that professionally redone and repainted. The only known rust is on the front passenger fender, and it is just barely starting, smaller than a dime. Should be an easy fix (picture is included).
Upholstery looks to be original, one spot on rear passenger seat (driver's side) starting to tear.
Body, paint was done prior to us purchasing it, and it was done very well. We always get compliments when we take the car out, and local politicians ask us each July 4th to take them in the local parade (which we do!).
Vehicle has been garaged the entire time we've owned it, stored offsite in garage from October to April each year. Mileage cannot be confirmed, either 60k original miles, or perhaps it has turned over?
What is wrong with the car?
- Small rust spot mentioned above- Upholstery tear mentioned above- Some of the aluminum trim pieces around trunk have small dings, could be replaced with aftermarket.- Speedometer needle jumps at low speeds- Installed replacement horn a few years ago, but for whatever reason the horn is not working again.- It doesn't look like it has ever had a frame-off restoration, so underneath there is a little surface corrosion on the frame, floor panels but nothing substantial. Would benefit from brushing and undercoating.
Vehicle is sold as is, with no warranty.
Payment Terms:The successful high bidder or winner will submit a $500.00 Deposit deposit within 48 hours of the close of the auction to secure the vehicle. Buyer agrees to pay remaining balance due within 3 business days of the close of the auction. All financial transactions must be completed before delivery of the vehicle.Payment Methods: Cash (In Person), bank transfer.
Here is a video of the car starting, and the exhaust sounds:
click for movie