We're seeing a shift in the market, with Tri-Five Chevys cooling off and the bigger, more substantial-looking '58s heating up. This 1958 Chevrolet Impala hardtop is the ideal car for cruising: flashy, well-sorted, and great to look at, but not so perfect that you need a trailer. a 348 with Tri-Power, you'll love the way it drives so much that you'll never want to get out from behind the wheel.Bright Rio Red is the right choice on a '58. Sure, they made other colors, but if you're going big, there's no point in trying to be subtle about it. The one-year-only styling has aged extremely well, and this top-of-the-line Chevy looks more like a Cadillac than an affordable everyman's car. From the big grille to the newly introduced quad headlights to the angular roof line, this car gets just about everything right. It was restored more than a few years ago and it's been driven, but it presents extremely well with only a few small flaws that are certainly in line with its age and price. The doors open and close like the proverbial bank vault, shut lines are tight, and the bright white top makes the car look long and sleek (which it is). Of course, someone spent a rather large sum of cash on the chrome and bright work, all of which remains in fantastic condition, and this car sports an optional set of dual antennas on the rear deck, which always makes them look sporty. You're going to get noticed in this car!The '58 Chevys are special for more than their looks; the interior with its tri-tone upholstery remains one of the most distinctive looks of the late '50s. You'd thing that red, black, and silver would be garish, but in this Impala, it works beautifully, with snug-fitting seat covers, red carpets with a factory-style weave, and that big steering wheel with the chrome insert. Sure, it's as flashy as the bodywork, but it's a great look that will never go out of style. Aside from a Pioneer AM/FM/cassette head unit, it's completely stock inside and like the exterior, it's been nicely maintained since the restoration was finished. Everything seems to be operational, including the gauges, and back seat occupants will be delighted to see that neat lift-up center arm rest. The door panels are beautifully designed with anodized panels and red-toned armrests that look like jet exhausts, and the trunk is correctly finished with a rubber mat, full-sized spare tire, and jack assembly.We believe the 348 cubic inch V8 under the hood is the car's original engine, but in 1958, numbers-matching wasn't a thing. It's topped by three 2-barrel carburetors, making it one of the best-performing cars you could buy. It's very correctly restored, with that big black air cleaner hiding the Tri-Power induction and Chevy Orange on the block, and you'll note that the distinctive W-shaped valve covers are painted rather than chromed, which is correct. Also note the factory-installed generator/power steering unit, which is a pretty rare find, as well as original-style power brakes on the firewall. It starts easily and pulls the car around with a big dose of low-end torque, and the 2-speed PowerGlide automatic is a reliable servant. A burbling dual exhaust has just enough attitude to remind everyone that this was a hot car back in the day and the restored chassis shows evidence of use but no signs of trouble. Fresh G78-14 wide whitewall tires look right and give the car a proper '50s ride.Nicely maintained and ready to enjoy, this is a smart buy that should continue to appreciate while you enjoy it. Call today!
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