Impala and SS 1958-1972 Musclecar Portfolio

Book excerpt: The Impala started as a two-model variant of the Bel-Air range becoming a series of its own for 1959. Its success peaked in 1964 when 60% of all Chevrolets wore the Impala badge. The most interesting model came in mid-1961 with the SS, a muscle car that was affected by the emissions regulations of the late sixties which brought about its demise in 1972. From 1965 the Caprice became the top model in the range with the Impala name living on as just another full-size Chevy. This is a compilation of contemporary road tests, specification and performance data, owners' views, comparison tests, model introductions and background. Models covered include: 348, Police special, 409SS, 327SS, Station Wagon, 427SS, 307, 307 Convertible, 350, 454, CoupT.