More than six decades after its debut, the 1959 Chevrolet Impala continues to define the peak of American fin-era styling. Combining dramatic proportions with the legendary 348 Tri-Power V8 and desirable four-speed manual transmission, it remains one of the most celebrated Chevrolets ever produced. This example benefits from a comprehensive frame-off, rotisserie restoration completed in the '90s. It earned AACA Senior honors following its restoration and has remained with the same owner ever since, carefully stored in a climate-controlled garage throughout that time.
Finished in Roman Red lacquer, the body showcases the unforgettable styling that made the 1959 Impala an automotive design landmark. Its expansive Bubble Top roofline flows into dramatic batwing rear fins and signature cat's-eye taillights, while sculpted quarter panels, broad side trim, hood ornaments, and an intricately detailed grille reinforce the car's unmistakable late-1950s character. One-piece front and rear bumpers contribute to the clean presentation associated with California-built cars, complemented by polished stainless trim, dual rear antennas, fender-mounted mirrors, and restored Impala emblems throughout. Painted 14" steel wheels wear full-size Chevrolet wheel covers and new Coker American Classic wide whitewall tires, while matching fender skirts are included for an alternative period-correct appearance.
Power comes from Chevrolet's legendary 348 cubic inch W-series V8 equipped with Tri-Power induction featuring three Rochester two-barrel carburetors beneath a factory-style air cleaner. The engine compartment has been restored with an authentic appearance, including Chevrolet Orange finishes, black inner fenders, a factory-style radiator, and generator. A Borg-Warner T10 4-speed manual transmission sends power to a GM drop-out rear axle equipped with 3.55 gearing and a Positraction differential. Chevrolet's factory X-frame chassis supports independent front suspension and coil springs at all four corners, complemented by KYB Excel G shocks. Factory power steering utilizes the original-style control valve and assist ram, while factory power drum brakes provide stopping capability consistent with the car's stock mechanical character.
Inside, the cabin has been restored in a vivid red combination that faithfully recreates the distinctive atmosphere of Chevrolet's flagship model. Front and rear bench seats feature patterned tri-tone cloth inserts surrounded by matching red vinyl, complemented by coordinated door panels, red carpeting, rubber floor mats, and a sequin patterned headliner with dual dome lamps. The color-keyed dashboard centers around a hooded 120-mph speedometer flanked by factory auxiliary gauges. A restored steering wheel with a chrome horn ring, factory AM pushbutton radio, heater controls, manual windows, vent windows, and a white shift knob preserve the car's original character. And the expansive pillarless greenhouse gives the cabin the open, airy quality that made the Bubble Top design so memorable. The detailed luggage compartment retains a factory-style mat and matching spare, further reflecting the thoroughness of the restoration.
Recognized with an AACA Senior Award shortly after its restoration, this Impala has remained under the care of the same owner for the past three decades and has been consistently preserved in climate-controlled storage. Accompanying documentation includes an album of restoration photographs and the AACA award plaque. Combining long-term ownership, California history, an award-winning restoration, desirable 348 Tri-Power power, a 4-speed manual transmission, Positraction, and one of Chevrolet's most celebrated body designs, this 1959 Impala represents an exceptionally authentic example of the American fin era.
Key Highlights
Restored 1959 Chevrolet Impala hardtop
AACA Senior Award winner
348ci W-series Tri-Power V8
Three Rochester 2-barrel carburetors
Borg-Warner T10 4-speed manual transmission
GM drop-out rear axle with 3.55 gearing
Positraction differential
Factory X-frame chassis
KYB Excel-G shock absorbers
Factory power steering
Factory power drum brakes
One-piece front and rear bumpers
Roman Red lacquer finish
14" steel wheels with full-size wheel covers
New Coker American Classic wide whitewall tires
Restored red interior with tri-tone cloth bench seats
Factory AM pushbutton radio
Matching fender skirts included
Album of restoration photographs
