The iconic Chevrolet Impala, a symbol of automotive excellence in the 1960s, saw a decline in sales in 1966 despite its impressive performance in the previous year. While the full-size models received minor updates, the Chevelle underwent a complete redesign, and the Caprice became a standalone series.
These changes diverted attention away from the Impala, leading to a slight decrease in its market share. Despite the drop in sales compared to the previous year, the Impala still sold in significant numbers.
The Super Sport variant, available in coupe and convertible body styles, experienced a decline in sales to 119,000 units. One such 1966 Impala SS coupe is now up for sale on eBay.
The car appears to be in good condition, with a professional respray in the original Willow Green color. The owner claims it is unrestored and unmolested, but the interior shows signs of wear and tear, including ripped seats and a cracked dash pad. The engine, a matching-numbers 396ci unit with 325 horsepower, is in good working order.
The 1966 Chevrolet Impala SS, a classic muscle car, offered a variety of engine options to cater to different performance preferences. The base engine was a six-cylinder unit, but for those seeking more power, V8 options were available, starting with a 283-cubic-inch V8.
One popular choice was the L35 engine, which could be added to the Super Sport for an extra $158. However, for even more performance, the 427-cubic-inch L36 engine was the preferred option. This engine, which produced 390 horsepower, was slightly more expensive at $181 and was installed in approximately 1,800 cars.
The most powerful engine available for the Impala SS was the L72, a 427-cubic-inch unit that generated 425 horsepower. This engine was significantly more expensive than the other options and was often paired with a close ratio M22 transmission.
While this Impala SS appears to be a good project car, it is important to verify its authenticity and condition before making a purchase. Due to its rarity and desirability, original, unrestored Super Sports are highly sought after by collectors and can command a premium price.
The seller is asking for $25,900 for the car, but they are also open to offers. The Impala is located in Addison, Illinois, and the seller offers financing options. If you are interested in purchasing this classic muscle car, it is recommended to inspect it in person or have a third-party inspection performed.
