by 1965 was a big year for General Motors, Chevrolet, and the Impala series for two different reasons. On the one hand, it witnessed the debut of a new-generation Impala, this time boasting a more modern look that Chevy used across its entire full-size lineup.
On the other hand, it marked the first time in the United States after World War II that a single car sold more than 1 million units in just one year. It was another confirmation that Impala was a hit, so Chevy’s efforts to refresh the model for every model year were finally paying off.
The 1965 Impala has, therefore, become a highly desirable collectible, though most wealthy buyers are particularly looking for all-original and unmolested cars in just the perfect condition.
The example that eBay seller isoldmyz69 has recently published online no longer flexes the tip-top shape these people are drooling over but a project car condition. It is mainly the result of a long tenure in a moisty barn – moisty doesn’t go well with metal, so you should closely inspect everything for signs of rust.
While the car is allegedly a barn find, the owner did not share any information about the time spent in hiding. However, the images confirm the vehicle needs a complete restoration and a thorough cleaning inside to determine its current condition accurately.
The good news is the Impala continues to be complete and unmolested. The original engine is still there, and as it turns out, it turns over by hand. The seller did not try to start it, so without an in-person inspection, it’s impossible to tell if you can save the engine.
The unit in charge of putting the wheels in motion is a 283 (4.3-liter) V8 – this was the base engine choice on the 1965 Impala and eventually became the most common choice for this model year.
Chevy offered the Impala with several more powerful engine options, but the 283 and the 327 offered a good balance between price and performance (not on the SS, though, as a big-block unit made much more sense in this case).
While little information is available on the rust you’ll find on this Impala, the owner says the frame is still solid. You should check out the undersides and the trunk thoroughly, as these areas are typically among the first to be invaded by rust.
This Impala sells cheaply, and I doubt it’ll remain available for too long. The owner will let the car go to anyone willing to pay $2,500, and this is quite a bargain for a 1965 Impala that’s still complete and unmolested.
The listing will expire in approximately one week, but it’s probably just a matter of time until someone buys it.
