The second-generation Impala came to be in 1959 and remained in production for two years, with a completely restyled model coming out in 1961.
However, the two model years that were part of the second-generation Impala were significantly different from a styling perspective, with the 1959 release typically considered more desirable in collector circles.
The 1960 Impala propelled Chevrolet's sales to new heights. The company sold close to 1.9 million cars, and its full-size lineup was a good reason to get a Chevy. The Impala was the best-selling model in 1960, and customers could order a four-door sedan, a four-door hardtop sport sedan, a two-door hardtop sport coupe, and a convertible. A four-door wagon was also available as the Nomad.
The cheapest Impala this year was the four-door sedan, which carried a price tag of $2,590. It's also the least desirable today, with the convertible remaining a highly sought-after configuration, especially in tip-top shape. When it was new, it could be had for at least $2,847 without any extras.
This 1960 Chevrolet Impala two-door coupe has recently been pulled from a 30-year car collection, and eBay seller ridesnation promises a rare package that starts with the paint.
I won't insist on the car's condition because it's obvious this Impala has received the right work to remain a tip-top specimen, but you must know that the car comes with Flowmaster muffles, polished dashboard trim, power windows, and chrome bumpers.
The sellers explain that this Impala was refreshed in 2018, but it's unclear how original it continues to be today. However, the restoration looks like a professional job with particular attention to what set the Impala apart from the rest of the crowd in 1960.
Let's stop for a minute to inspect the paint.
The seller highlights the metallic copper paint, explaining that it's a rare choice for a 1960 Impala. While I don't have any numbers, I admit that a Suntan Copper Impala is rare, especially when retaining the original paint.
However, this is no longer the factory coating, and a quick look at the tags proves that the Impala was born with another paint. The 915A code indicates that Chevrolet painted the Impala in Tasco Turquoise, while Suntan Copper is coded 920A.
The 2018 restoration likely included this change of color, and I'm not sure many collectors will agree with this idea, especially because turquoise was a great choice for the 1960 Impala.
The engine under the hood is a 348ci unit paired with a four-speed manual transmission.
The base choice in 1960 was the 235ci six-cylinder unit with 135 horsepower, while the standard V8 choice was a 283ci block with 185 horsepower.
Chevrolet offered multiple more powerful choices, starting with a four-barrel version of the 283 and rated at 230 horsepower. The 348 was the big-block option offered in multiple configurations, and customers who didn't mind paying extra could order a 335-horsepower version for $333 extra.
The fuel-injected option was no longer available in 1960.
This 1960 Impala checks many boxes for a restoration candidate, and it's hard to put a price on it, especially considering the color change. It's unclear if the engine is original to the car, though the VIN confirms the vehicle left the factory with a V8 unit under the hood, but you should inspect it in person and ask more questions if you're committed to a purchase.
The 2018 refresh included changes that might not be everybody's cup of tea, especially because it pushed the Impala further away from its all-original glory. However, nobody can deny it was a professional job, and I recommend that interested buyers check the interior in person.
The car was born and raised in California, and this should be good news for the quality of the metal. Nevertheless, the sellers didn't share any specifics regarding the potential metalwork the car has previously received, so put this Impala on a lift and check the undercarriage for signs of previous repairs.
It's time to talk money.
This Impala is in mint condition and won't require anything to drive anywhere, and considering the quality of the restoration, it can't sell cheaply. The owner posted it on eBay with a $65,000 price tag, but they are also considering other offers.
You can submit whatever offer you have in mind using the "Make Offer" option on eBay, but do it in the next 7 days before the listing expires. The car is currently parked in Miami, and it should be able to drive anywhere on its wheels, though you might want to use transportation to take it home, considering its mint shape.
