In showrooms for about 50 years over three stints, the Chevrolet Impala is one of the company's most iconic nameplates. And the late 1950s and early 1960s versions are now sought-after classics. But because they were built in millions of examples, they're also common and inexpensive (with minor exceptions). This results in many Impalas rotting away in junkyards and barns.
While most of these cars are damaged beyond repair after decades of neglect, some took long-term storage like champs and are still in one piece in 2024. This 1964 Impala spent more than 40 years off the road, and it looks like it could still spring back to life. Fortunately, YouTube's "Enzo Marino" decided it deserved a second chance and pulled it from the weeds.
The Impala was last registered in 1981, which means it's been sitting for 43 years as of 2024. But based on the way it looks, it wasn't parked outside all this time. Otherwise, it would have serious rust issues. I'm not saying the Impala is clean, but apart from surface rust on the roof, upper fenders, and trunk lid, this Chevy is pretty solid. It was most likely kept in a barn before it ended up in the yard.
Its first wash in decades confirms that the sheet metal is still solid for the most part. The interior is also in surprisingly good condition. Sure, it needs thorough detailing, but the upholstery shows only mild weathering. The white interior is also a cool feature. You just don't find them in this condition nowadays.
The engine bay is also pretty solid. The 327-cubic-inch (5.4-liter) V8 is complete and looks like the original unit. It mates to a two-speed automatic, so it's nothing special to write home about. Does it still run? Obviously not, but our host found out the engine wasn't stuck, so he proceeded to get it roaring again.
With fresh plugs and a new carburetor in place, the 327 V8 seemed willing to fire up, but it ultimately refused to. That's not uncommon for engines that haven't had a sip of gasoline in four years, and our host is positive he will eventually figure it out.
It's unclear if this Impala will be restored, but it would be nice to see it back on the road because it appears to be a true-blue survivor. Either way, its two-door configuration and V8 mill make it desirable, so it should find a good home.
This Impala is part of the third generation, which Chevrolet produced from 1961 to 1964. The final-year version was restyled to a more rounded and softer look. The roof with the wide C-pillar was carried over from 1963. If you're a fan of the "convertible roof" styling, 1964 is the prettiest-looking variant, in my opinion. Check it out in the video below and let me know if you'd restore this white-on-white Chevy.
Ask Ciprian about cars and he'll reveal an obsession with classics and an annoyance with modern design cues. Read his articles and you'll understand why his ideal SUV is the 1969 Chevrolet K5 Blazer. Full profile
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