The 1965 Chevrolet Impala SS represents a landmark year for the nameplate, introducing a redesigned “coke bottle” silhouette that became an instant classic. This particular sport coupe was produced by GM of Canada at the Oshawa, Ontario plant and originally delivered to Loewen Chevrolet in Manitoba. While it left the factory as a Powerglide-equipped 327 V8 model, it has since been transformed into a more potent performer with a period-style big block heart. Now offered on consignment in Arizona, this blue-on-blue Impala SS combines its original Canadian heritage with significant mechanical upgrades, making it an attractive choice for enthusiasts seeking a classic aesthetic with enhanced mid-sixties muscle.
Mist Blue Silhouette and 409 Badging
The exterior is finished in its factory-correct shade of Mist Blue (Paint Code D), a color that highlights the sweeping lines of the 1965 redesign. Chrome-finished bumpers and quad headlights maintain the car’s upscale Super Sport character, while the addition of 409 badging hints at the power lurking beneath the hood. The car rides on 15-inch Rally-style wheels mounted with BFGoodrich Radial T/A tires, providing a wider, more modern footprint than the original 7.75-14 bias-ply units. Functional exterior details include a dual exhaust system with Dynomax Super Turbo mufflers, ensuring a deep and authoritative soundtrack that matches the car’s aggressive big-block persona.
Blue Vinyl Cabin and Hurst Shifter
The interior retains its factory-specified blue vinyl upholstery (Trim Code 831), featuring front bucket seats and a rear bench. Though originally ordered with an upper pad cover for the instrument panel, the cabin has been updated to reflect its manual transmission conversion, most notably via the floor-mounted Hurst shifter. Driver-centric instrumentation includes a horizontal 120-mph speedometer, a manifold vacuum readout, and a 10k-rpm tachometer centrally mounted below the dashboard. While the factory Delco push-button AM radio remains in the dash, the clock is currently non-functional. The overall environment is a well-preserved example of mid-sixties GM design, blending utilitarian controls with the premium appointments of the SS trim level.
409ci V8 Power and 4-Speed Manual Conversion
At some point prior to 2023, the original 250 hp 327 V8 was replaced with a larger 409ci V8 engine. This upgraded powerplant features Edelbrock finned valve covers and a carburetor that was recently rebuilt in early 2026. In place of the factory-issued 2-speed Powerglide, the car now utilizes a four-speed manual transmission linked to a robust 12-bolt rear end. The braking system, which utilizes four-wheel drums, received a new master cylinder in January 2026 to ensure reliable operation. This mechanical suite provides a significant increase in torque and driver engagement over the original factory specifications, allowing this Impala to deliver the visceral driving feel associated with high-displacement Chevrolet performance.
| Technical Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 409ci V8 (Installed Under Prior Ownership) |
| Output (Hp/Torque) | 340hp (345PS) / 420 lb-ft (569Nm) (Period-Correct Estimate) |
| Transmission | 4-Speed Manual (Converted) |
| 0-60 mph (0-100 km/h) | 6.8 Seconds (Estimated) |
| Top Speed | 125 mph (201 km/h) (Estimated) |
| Chassis Code | 16637 (Impala SS Sport Coupe) |
| Curb Weight | 3,700 lbs (1,678 kg) (Estimated) |
Market Context and Rivals
The 1965 Impala SS sits in a competitive space alongside the Ford Galaxie 500 XL and the Plymouth Sport Fury. While the Ford offered a more formal roofline, the Impala’s fastback-inspired “sport coupe” design proved more popular with the youth market of the time. In the 2026 collector market, modified examples like this one occupy a unique position; while they lack the pure investment pedigree of a factory-born 409 car, the increased performance and manual transmission make them highly desirable as “drivers.” The inclusion of documentation from Vintage Vehicle Services adds a layer of provenance often missing from modified classics, helping to anchor its value in the current market.
Ownership and Value Trends
Ownership of a Canadian-market Impala is made simpler by the detailed records provided by Vintage Vehicle Services, which confirm this car is one of 6,563 similar units produced for sale in Canada. While the 409 engine and 4-speed transmission are non-original, they are period-correct upgrades that generally enhance marketability in the restomod and hot-rod communities. Value trends for the 1965 model year have remained stable, with a slight premium placed on cars featuring documented histories and functional performance upgrades. Prospective owners should note that while the mechanicals have been recently serviced, including the brakes and carburetor, the non-functional clock and unknown total mileage are factors to consider in long-term valuation.
This 1965 Chevrolet Impala SS Sport Coupe is a compelling blend of factory heritage and hot-rod spirit. With its upgraded 409ci V8, manual gearbox, and classic Mist Blue finish, it stands ready to deliver an authentic mid-sixties muscle car experience to its next custodian.
Disclaimer: Content on this site is for informational and entertainment purposes only. Details, analyses, and opinions reflect current trends and personal views, not professional or financial advice. Always verify information with official sources before making any decisions.
Source: bringatrailer.com
