An Immaculate Impala Wagon With a 409 V-8

Before SUVs and pickup trucks became American favorites, station wagons were the logical option for drivers hauling passengers and gear. As a result, most wagons saw hard use, leading to an early demise. The 1965 Chevrolet Impala recently for sale on eBay is an exception.

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

This beautifully preserved big wagon is in excellent condition inside and out, looking much like it did when it left the factory.

Drivetrain Transplant Done Right

What makes this wagon special is the 409-cubic inch V-8 under the hood. It was the biggest and most potent engine option in a 1965 Impala.

While the Impala wagon’s engine is not original, the swap was done correctly, down to the 409 badges on the front fenders. A chrome air cleaner and valve covers help dress up the tidy engine compartment, which retains an otherwise original stock appearance.

Matched with a correct Powerglide two-speed automatic transmission, the rebuilt engine benefits from performance and drivability upgrades, including an Edelbrock aluminum intake manifold topped with a Holley carburetor. A custom stainless steel dual exhaust system was added to maximize the mighty 409’s performance.

Low-Mile Luster

This nine-passenger wagon remained with its first owner in Virginia for over 30 years. Showing just under 100,000 original miles, it retains Madiera maroon paint and red vinyl upholstery. The paint presents a deep luster from any angle, and the body is free of rust, dents, or other damage.

The Impala wagon’s immaculate red interior is said to be completely original. That’s remarkable for any classic, especially one designed for family duty. The dash, seats, door panels, and headliner look new, as do the original carpets and Chevrolet-branded floor mats. Even the folding third row in the back is in like-new condition.

All of the Impala wagon’s gauges and interior lights are said to function as they should. The factory AM push-button radio is in place, as well. The only addition is a new- old stock compass fitted to the dashboard.

The Right Stuff

Other tasteful and practical upgrades include American Racing Torq Thrust five-spoke wheels, radial tires, and power brakes with cross-drilled and slotted rotors up front. A dual master cylinder was added for safety, and power steering was fitted last year.

Extensive documentation from day one will accompany the sale, including the Impala wagon’s original owner’s manual, title, registration cards, and maintenance receipts. There’s also a Protect-O-Plate, a credit-card-sized metal plate with the VIN and other build details and specifications. Prized by collectors of General Motors vehicles, a Protect-O-Plate helps document how a car was equipped when new and can increase the value of collector vehicles.

This Impala wagon is a turnkey classic that can double as a grocery-getter or softball team transporter. That 409 will help make sure the team arrives on time.