1965 Chevrolet Impala SS review from North America

The only troubles I had with the Impala was trying to find a 2 barrel carb to fit a 283 engine. If I had the cash back then, I would have purchased a manifold and a 4 barrel Holley. Back in 1986, other than waiting forever and overpaying for a carb at a dealership, your choices for bigger auto parts stores in Chicago were Forest City Auto Parts and Trak Auto.

In addition, the brutal Chicago winters took it toll on the rear part of the frame and the rear shock towers. You felt like you were on a roller coaster when you went over railroad tracks doing about 20 m.p.h.!

I purchased my Impala in Chicago for $1200 from a kid my age at the time (20). It was (and still is) my dream car!

It was evening orchid (lavender color, rumored to be a Cadillac experimental color in 1965) with white vinyl interior and black dash. Powerglide trans, bucket seats and console.

I found it interesting to have the "optional" hazard lights feature, which was a huge bright red button on the lower dash, just left of the console.

A very dependable car! Decent on the gas and idled very steadily, even with big temperature changes. Excellent riding and handling as well.

Had some surface rust around the rear wheel wells, and at the top of the rear deck where the infamous dual antennas came out. I put some money into having the frame and shock towers fixed.