Summary

Concours-restored, matching-numbers, show-winner with a factory bubble top, original color combination and NOS parts. Powered by a 409ci V8 engine paired with a 4-speed manual transmission.

Details

The 1961 Chevrolet Impala Super Sport bubble top was a result of a banner year for GM to offer the Super Sport, bubble top and the 409 engine. This bubble top has undergone a comprehensive, no-expense-spared, restoration to a high level. The previous owner spent years sourcing NOS parts before even starting the restoration. It is finished in two-tone with Sea Mist Turquoise #917 with the complementing, correct white bubble top. The car features the Sea Mist Turquoise SS interior with contrasting silver trim. The cabin incorporates a split front bench seat, Impala trim, a cluster of small instruments (including a temperature gauge, fuel gauge and clock), correct SS passenger grab handle, the original floor-mounted shifter with console plate, all the correct emblems and badges, and a working original AM push-button radio with front and rear speakers and dual antennas on the rear fenders. At the top of the powertrain offering was a new, factory-built, matching-numbers 409ci W-Series Chevrolet V8 engine. It featured a 4.3125-inch bore and a 3.5-inch stroke. With an 11.25:1 compression ratio, it developed 360hp at 5,800 rpm. Like the rest of the car, the engine compartment and 409/360hp engine are clean and well-detailed with all correct accessories and surfaces. Both the engine bay and undercarriage are highly detailed and ready for showing. The Chevrolet additionally comes with a Muncie 4-speed manual transmission on the floor, 336 posi-traction rear end, a 7,000 rpm Sun tachometer system mounted on the steering column, aluminum intake manifold, dual exhaust, power steering, heavy-duty drum brakes with sintered metallic linings and power assist, dual snorkel air cleaner, tinted glass, correct hose clamps, heavy-duty police suspension (which included stiffer springs, heavier shocks, a beefier front sway bar), and NOS spinner wheel hubcaps with whitewall tires. It also comes equipped with the original carburetor, intake manifold, exhaust manifold and distributor, which are all date-coded 1961. Featured in the SS are five matching 8.00-145 BFGoodrich thin whitewall tires as well as an original-style battery, washer bottle refill with sticker mounted by the radiator, and all the correct tags, stickers and markings displayed throughout the engine compartment. The full-size Chevrolets were all-new for 1961, featuring a 119-inch wheelbase chassis, revised powertrains and a new performance-oriented Impala SS model. This Impala comes with a show sign, trophy, documentation of the previous awards, spare tire and jack. It was well cared for and maintained over the years prior to its restoration, and since the restoration has been driven less than 20 test miles. As a testament to its high quality, this fine example won the Gold Award with a score of 981 in its first showing at the National Impala meet. In its second showing, it won First in Class at the San Marino Motor Classic in June 2019.