The 1962 Chevrolet Impala SS Hardtop arriving at the Kissimmee 2026 auction represents a high-water mark for factory performance. This silver coupe underwent a comprehensive frame-off restoration that is fully documented with photos. It perfectly captures the transition from stylish cruiser to a legitimate street brawler. Every line on this hardtop emphasizes the clean, “bubble-top” inspired geometry that collectors crave. This vehicle serves as a rolling tribute to the era when big-block power dominated the American landscape.
The Heart of the 1962 Chevrolet Impala SS Hardtop
Under the expansive silver hood lies the legendary 409 CI V-8 engine producing a staggering 425 horsepower. This powerplant features dual 4-barrel carburetors and a signature chrome dual snorkel air cleaner. It delivers the kind of raw mechanical energy that inspired songs and defined a generation of racers. A 4-speed manual transmission gives the driver total control over this massive reservoir of torque. Consequently, the car offers a visceral experience that modern fuel-injected engines simply cannot replicate today.
Refined Interior and Period Correct Details
The interior of the 1962 Chevrolet Impala SS Hardtop provides a stunning contrast with its vibrant red upholstery. It features front bucket seats and a sleek center console that houses the floor-mounted shifter. A tilt steering column and power steering make handling this heavy-duty machine surprisingly manageable for the driver. Sunpro auxiliary gauges and a factory tachometer allow for precise monitoring of the high-performance big block. Even the factory AM radio remains in place to preserve the authentic cabin atmosphere of the early sixties.
Chassis Strength and Modern Stopping Power
A frame-off restoration ensures that the hidden components of this 1962 Chevrolet Impala SS Hardtop are as clean as the body. The car rides on classic chrome Cragar wheels wrapped in period-correct redline radial tires. While the look is vintage, the safety has been improved with 4-wheel power disc brakes for reliable stopping. Dual antennas at the rear provide that quintessential “jet age” styling touch that defined premium Chevrolets. This combination of classic aesthetics and mechanical integrity makes it a highly usable and impressive show piece.
Engine Performance and Drivetrain Specifications
This 1962 Chevrolet Impala SS Hardtop is equipped with the high-output 409 cubic inch V-8 engine. It utilizes dual 4-barrel carburetors to reach its factory rating of 425 horsepower. The 4-speed manual gearbox ensures that every bit of that power is effectively transferred to the rear wheels. Modern redline radial tires provide improved grip compared to the original bias-ply versions. With 4-wheel power disc brakes, the car handles its immense speed with much more confidence than it did sixty years ago.
Summary of a Big Block Legend
This 1962 Chevrolet Impala SS Hardtop is a rare example of a documented, frame-off restored muscle icon. The combination of the silver exterior and red interior creates an unmistakably bold and classic presence. Its 409/425 HP engine remains one of the most respected powerplants in the history of American performance. Every detail, from the Cragar wheels to the dual snorkel cleaner, has been addressed with care. It stands ready to impress the most discerning collectors on the auction block this January.
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Source: mecum.com
