The Golden Year for the 1965 Chevrolet Impala – America’s Favorite Full-Size Model
This 1965 Impala represents a one-owner specimen that runs impressively despite sitting dormant for years.
1965 marked the greatest year for the original Impala, with sales reaching unprecedented heights. The Impala had already established itself as America’s best-selling automobile, but its 1965 performance was truly exceptional.
Chevrolet manufactured over 1 million units during that single year, with the Super Sport trim contributing significantly to this achievement. The new-generation Impala captivated buyers nationwide, and the modifications Chevrolet implemented—including the introduction of the Caprice—quickly proved successful.
The Caprice initially debuted as an Impala variant in 1965 before evolving into an independent model series the following year.
Single-Owner 1965 Chevrolet Impala History with Documented Provenance
The Impala featured in these photographs has remained with its original owner throughout its entire existence but is now available to relocate to a new garage if a buyer offers appropriate compensation.
This classic Chevrolet has weathered the years, and eBay vendor odog72415 indicates it has been inactive for an extended period. Unfortunately, specific details are limited—information about exactly how many years this Impala has been stationary would be particularly valuable, as this significantly impacts restoration planning.
Original 1965 Chevrolet Impala: Solid Foundation with Classic Components
The vehicle maintains a structurally sound appearance, and apart from replacement shock absorbers, presents as largely original. This aspect warrants thorough in-person examination, so prospective buyers should contact the seller to arrange an on-site inspection before submitting offers. While 1965 Impalas remain desirable when meeting certain criteria, non-original examples typically generate less enthusiasm than unmodified counterparts (unless extensively restomodded).
The owner mentions that the Impala comes complete with original literature and documentation. Additionally, the purchaser will receive numerous supplementary components to facilitate restoration. While the project appears manageable, the required effort ultimately depends on your expectations—converting this Impala into reliable transportation seems achievable with modest investment.
1965 Chevrolet Impala Engine: Functional Small-Block V8 Power
The primary advantage is the operational powertrain. This vehicle features a 327 cubic inch small-block engine that, according to the seller, starts and functions properly despite prolonged storage. The odometer displays 52,000 miles, representing the authentic lifetime mileage.
Investment Value: Worth of 1965 Chevrolet Impala Today
Everything ultimately revolves around acquisition cost, and unfortunately, the seller’s financial expectations might deter many potential buyers. The asking price of $10,500 appears somewhat ambitious for this particular Impala, though the seller has activated the “Make Offer” option. Utilize this feature if you desire the vehicle but find the listed price excessive—initiate negotiations to determine whether this classic Chevrolet can potentially return to active service.
The auction platform indicates 26 individuals currently monitoring the listing, with 8 days remaining before expiration, suggesting potential for a successful transaction. The Impala is currently located in San Francisco and will require transportation arrangements despite its operational engine.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 1965 Chevrolet Impala
How much is a 1965 Chevrolet Impala worth today?
The value of a 1965 Chevrolet Impala varies significantly based on condition, originality, and specific model. Base 1965 Impala sedans in good condition typically range from $15,000 to $25,000. Convertibles command $25,000 to $45,000, while the desirable Super Sport (SS) models can fetch $30,000 to $65,000 depending on options and condition. Fully restored show-quality examples, particularly SS convertibles with the 409 engine, can exceed $100,000 at specialized auctions. Project cars like the one featured in this article typically sell for $8,000 to $15,000.
What engine came in a 1965 Chevrolet Impala?
The 1965 Chevrolet Impala came with several engine options. The standard engine was the 230 cubic inch (3.8L) inline-six producing 140 horsepower. V8 options included: the 283 cubic inch small-block V8 (195-220 hp), the 327 cubic inch small-block V8 (250-300 hp) like the one in our featured car, and the performance-oriented 396 cubic inch big-block V8 (325-425 hp). The legendary 409 cubic inch V8 was available early in the model year before being replaced by the 396. Each engine option could be paired with either a manual transmission or the popular Powerglide automatic.
What year Chevrolet Impala is most desirable?
Among collectors, the 1961-1964 Chevrolet Impala SS models (especially the 1963 model) are often considered the most desirable, with the 1963 Impala SS 409 being particularly coveted. The 1965-1967 models also command strong interest, especially the SS convertibles. For the “bubble top” design enthusiasts, the 1961 Impala is highly sought after. The 1958 first-year Impala has developed a strong following as well. From a production standpoint, the 1965 Impala was the most successful, with over 1 million units sold, making it a significant model in automotive history.
How much would a 1967 Chevrolet Impala cost today?
A 1967 Chevrolet Impala’s current market value ranges from $12,000 to $30,000 for standard models in good condition. The more desirable SS models typically command $25,000 to $50,000, while pristine SS convertibles can sell for $60,000 to $80,000. The highest values are attached to documented, original 427 engine cars, which can exceed $100,000 for concours-quality examples. As with all classic cars, factors like originality, documentation, options, and restoration quality significantly impact the final value.
How much horsepower does a 1965 Chevrolet Impala have?
The 1965 Chevrolet Impala’s horsepower varied based on the engine option. The base 230 cubic inch inline-six produced 140 horsepower. The 283 cubic inch V8 offered 195-220 horsepower. The 327 cubic inch V8 (like the one in our featured car) generated between 250-300 horsepower depending on carburetion. Early 1965 models could be equipped with the 409 cubic inch V8 producing 340-400 horsepower, while the mid-year introduction of the 396 cubic inch big-block V8 offered 325-425 horsepower in various configurations. The top performance option was the L37 396 cubic inch V8 with 425 horsepower.
What is the top speed of a 1965 Chevrolet Impala?
The top speed of a 1965 Chevrolet Impala depended significantly on the engine and rear axle ratio. A six-cylinder Impala could reach approximately 90-100 mph. Models equipped with the 283 V8 could achieve 105-115 mph. With the 327 cubic inch V8 (like our featured car), top speeds of 115-125 mph were possible. The high-performance 396 and 409 cubic inch engines could push the Impala to 130-140+ mph when properly equipped with the right gearing. The fastest factory configuration was the 425 hp 396 V8 with the optional 4.56 rear axle ratio, which could theoretically exceed 140 mph in ideal conditions, though few owners would have attempted such speeds.
