Beneath the unassuming veneer of this 1965 Impala SS lies a mechanical marvel that defies expectations. Crafted by the skilled hands of Bob Giannelli and his NRC Motorsports team, this classic Chevrolet retains its original allure while concealing a powertrain capable of humbling even the most advanced performance vehicles.
The automotive world is rapidly evolving, with electric vehicles gaining prominence for their environmental friendliness and impressive acceleration. However, for those who yearn for the visceral thrill of internal combustion, this Impala SS is a testament to the enduring allure of muscle cars.
It embodies the ingenuity of custom car builders who can extract extraordinary power from seemingly ordinary platforms. This sixty-year-old Impala stands as a testament to the enduring passion for performance, blending classic aesthetics with modern-day power.
Its near-stock exterior belies the monstrous capabilities hidden within, making it a fascinating example of how classic cars can be transformed into automotive powerhouses. More than just a car, this custom-built Impala SS is a statement of automotive artistry and engineering prowess.
It represents the pinnacle of what can be achieved when passion, skill, and innovation converge, demonstrating that the spirit of performance lives on in the hearts of enthusiasts and the minds of talented craftsmen.
This Impala SS is not merely a fast car; it’s a time capsule of automotive history infused with cutting-edge technology. It’s a reminder that the pursuit of speed and power is an enduring human fascination and that the canvas of the automobile is limitless for those with the vision and skill to create something truly extraordinary.
While the exterior retains the classic lines of a quintessential American muscle car, the interior harbors a mechanical symphony of immense power. A bespoke suspension system, meticulously engineered by Bob and his team, provides the necessary grip to harness the car’s prodigious output. Modern stopping power is ensured by a custom four-wheel disc brake setup sourced from Strange Engineering.
However, it’s the heart of this beast that truly defies expectations. The original 396 cubic-inch V8 has been unceremoniously replaced by an Oakley Motorsports powerplant, an engine built solely for dominance.
Featuring a Brodix aluminum block, SR20 heads, and topped with an Advanced Product Design 4500 Dominator carburetor, this naturally aspirated leviathan generates over 1,000 horsepower.
To channel this immense force to the pavement, a robust Turbo 400 automatic transmission from Performance Racing Transmissions works in conjunction with a custom carbon-fiber driveshaft and a fortified 9-inch rear end.
The result is a full-sized Chevy from the mid-sixties capable of humbling most modern muscle cars. This Impala SS has shattered the quarter-mile barrier, clocking in at an astonishing 9.60 seconds a testament to the extraordinary engineering and craftsmanship poured into this build.
