by Chevrolet Impala reached the zenith of its glory during the ’60s when its popularity skyrocketed in the United States. Impala needed just seven years to become the best-selling nameplate in its home market, with over 1 million units sold in 1965 alone.
The yearly sales slowly declined in the following years, and the next decade continued the trend, mainly due to design and engine changes enforced by new regulations.
Many believe Impala models launched during the ’70s no longer sported the wow factor of its original sibling, but a 1975 example recently saved from an old gas station building tries to prove you otherwise.
This 1975 Impala is a fantastic barn find in all regards. The owner parked the car in the gas station before they passed away in 1987, so this Impala has been sitting for at least 36 years.
The vehicle spent just 12 years on the road, and according to the mileage, the owner rarely drove it. The odometer indicates just 6,000 miles (about 9,600 km), and eBay seller janny245-2008 says they are all original.
Everything on this Impala is still original and unmolested, and while the body isn’t perfect, it doesn’t require anything other than minor fixes. The car spent the time in storage under a few blankets, and the rust reached the metal surface due to humidity. It hasn’t gotten through, so there are no rust concerns this time.
The seller says the car received only typical maintenance after leaving the gas station, including new fluids, tires, and a rebuilt carburetor. Everything is in working condition, and the interior looks incredible, which isn’t necessarily a surprise considering the owner rarely stepped inside.
Chevrolet fitted this Impala with a 350 (5.7-liter) V8, and the same engine is still in charge of putting the wheels in motion. It runs perfectly, but again, such low mileage means the V8 is almost new so I wouldn’t expect any significant mechanical problems.
Now, let’s talk money. A late ’70s Impala isn’t as desirable as a classic version launched in the ’60s, but considering it’s almost a new car, this ’75 model can’t sell for a cheap.
The owner listed the vehicle for auction on eBay, and the top bid at the time of writing is $5,000. A reserve is also in place, but its value is unknown, so we’ll have to wait and see if someone comes with a bid high enough to unlock it.
The auction will expire in approximately five days, and if you want to see this Impala in person, you must travel to Fredonia, Pennsylvania. The car sells with a title, and given its condition, you can theoretically drive it home on its wheels if you don’t find other mechanical problems.
