Chevrolet Impala (1st generation)
The zenith of Jet Age styling with iconic 'batwing' tailfins.
- Power
- 250 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 9.0 s
- Top speed
- 130 mph
- Est. value
- $25k–$140k
About the Chevrolet Impala
The 1959 Chevrolet Impala marked the model's first year as a standalone series, debuting one of the most radical designs of the 1950s. Its defining features are the horizontal 'batwing' tailfins and teardrop taillights, a bold departure from the vertical fins of its competitors. Built on a new X-frame chassis, it sat lower and wider than its predecessors, offering a spacious cabin and a smooth, boulevard-oriented ride. The 348 cubic-inch 'W-series' V8 provided the necessary torque to move its significant mass with ease, cementing its status as a flagship American cruiser.
Chevrolet Impala specs
The Chevrolet Impala produces 250 bhp (186 kW) and 481 Nm (355 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 9.0 seconds and has a top speed of 130 mph (209 km/h).
| Make | Chevrolet |
|---|---|
| Model | Impala |
| Generation | First generation (1st generation) |
| Trim | 348 Turbo-Thrust |
| Years | 1959 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | United States |
| Original price | About $2,700 when new |
| Engine | 5.7-litre V8 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 5,703 cc (5.7 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 250 bhp (186 kW) at 4,400 rpm |
| Torque | 481 Nm (355 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 5,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 9.0 s |
| Top speed | 130 mph (209 km/h) |
| Transmission | 2-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,655 kg (3,649 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 151 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Chevrolet Impala worth?
A typical Chevrolet Impala is estimated to be worth $25,000 – $140,000 (about £19,000 – £104,000).
Its original price when new was about $2,700.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Chevrolet Impala rarity in CarSpot
The Chevrolet Impala is a Rare card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 48 out of 100. Performance cars, typically worth around £50,000 to £100,000. A Rare card is worth 40 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Chevrolet Impala fun facts
- The 1959 Impala's trunk was so large it was advertised as having 32 cubic feet of cargo space, enough to fit a small family's entire luggage set.
- Its 'batwing' fins were so controversial that Chevrolet's own designers initially feared they had gone too far, yet the car helped Chevy reclaim the top sales spot in the US.
- The 348 V8 engine was Chevrolet's first 'big-block' design, featuring a unique combustion chamber located in the cylinder block rather than the head.
