Imagine buying a classic car, driving it just once, and then completely forgetting about it for decades. That’s exactly what happened to this 1964 Chevy Impala SS, and now it’s back in the spotlight, begging for a second chance at glory. But here’s where it gets controversial: Is this neglected beauty worth the time, money, and effort it’ll take to restore it? Let’s dive in and find out.
This Impala, recently unearthed from storage, is now up for grabs online, and its story is as intriguing as it is heartbreaking. Purchased in 1982, it was driven home and then seemingly abandoned, its promised restoration never materializing. Now, it’s looking for someone bold enough to take on the challenge of bringing it back to life. The owner’s lack of detailed knowledge about the car adds to its mystery, but one thing is clear: this Impala has the potential to be a stunning project—if you’re up for it.
The 1964 Impala SS was no ordinary car. By this time, the Super Sport nameplate had already established itself as a legend, having debuted in 1961 as a $53.80 package. Over the years, it evolved with bigger engines and bolder styling, making it a favorite among enthusiasts. And this is the part most people miss: While the Impala SS could technically be ordered with a six-cylinder engine, the real magic happened when it was paired with a big-block V8. These powerhouse versions are what make the SS models so coveted today.
The 1964 model year marked a significant milestone for the Impala SS, as it became a standalone series. Its popularity soared, with nearly 200,000 units produced. The hardtop variant was the crowd favorite, accounting for about 155,000 of the 536,000 Impala hardtops sold. Meanwhile, the convertible, though pricier at $3,196 compared to the hardtop’s $2,947, still attracted around 30,000 buyers willing to pay extra for open-air thrills.
Here’s where things get interesting: While the Super Sport could be ordered with any engine in the lineup, pairing it with a six-cylinder was, frankly, a head-scratcher. Yet, some buyers did just that, making these six-cylinder SS models rare curiosities today. However, the real stars are the big-block variants, especially those with the 409 cubic-inch engine. The base 409 produced 409 horsepower, while the 425-horsepower version, priced at an additional $484, was a beast with dual four-barrel carburetors.
Now, let’s talk about this particular Impala. It’s a project car in every sense of the word. Decades of neglect have taken their toll, with corrosion and rust evident throughout. The seller describes the undersides as ‘acceptable,’ noting ‘a few rust areas,’ but let’s be real—this car needs a full assessment on a lift to determine the extent of the damage. Bold statement alert: Restoring this Impala won’t be easy, but for the right person, it could be a labor of love.
The engine under the hood isn’t the big-block many would hope for. Instead, it’s a small-block 327ci unit with a two-barrel carburetor. While it’s not the most exciting setup, it’s still a solid performer and a better starting point than a six-cylinder or the base Turbo Fire. Unless you’ve got a 409 sitting in your garage, this engine is worth keeping for the restoration.
Despite its condition, this Impala SS is generating buzz on eBay, with over 1,500 views and 174 watchlist additions in just 24 hours. The current top bid is $6,100, and with no reserve, it’s guaranteed to find a new owner soon. Located in Arkansas, this project car will need a trailer ride to its new home, but for the right enthusiast, it’s a chance to revive a piece of automotive history.
So, here’s the big question: Is this 1964 Impala SS worth the effort? Or is it a money pit waiting to happen? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear your take on this controversial project car!
