Timeless Elegance: 1958 Chevrolet Bel Air Impala
Step back into the enchanting era of the 1950s with the iconic 1958 Chevrolet Bel Air Series 1700 Series Impala Hardtop Sport Coupe. This classic beauty not only made waves in the automotive world but also left an unforgettable mark on the silver screen, featuring prominently in the 1972 film ‘American Graffiti.’ Let’s dive into the fascinating story of this car, from its cinematic fame to its meticulous restoration.
Preserving History: Restoring the 1958 Impala
The current owner, after years of pursuit, finally acquired the 1958 Impala in 2015. Interestingly, it was originally purchased from Lucasfilm, the production company behind ‘American Graffiti.’ To ensure this piece of automotive and cinematic history stayed true to its roots, the Evernham team took on the challenge of restoring it to its original glory. Every frame of the movie was scrutinized for accuracy, leading to a complete disassembly of the white Impala down to the bare chassis. Each detail was meticulously documented during the restoration process, preserving the car’s unique charm.
Reliving the Movie Magic: Recreating the 1958 Impala
Though the original engine was missing, the restoration team didn’t compromise on authenticity. They installed a 327 with 6 Strombergs, mirroring the engine seen in ‘American Graffiti.’ An intriguing aspect of the car is a dent on the driver’s side, near the rear bumper, reminiscent of a memorable scene from the movie. This dent serves as a nostalgic reminder when the actor accidentally accelerated in reverse.
The Stylish Evolution: 1958 Chevrolet Bel Air
In 1958, Chevrolet took a bold departure from the 1957 model with the introduction of the Bel Air. The styling showcased fresh bodyshell designs shared with Pontiac, boasting the innovative X-member ‘Safety Girder’ frame design and four-wheel coil suspension. The 1958 Chevys featured a lower, wider, and longer profile, maintaining the reliable 283 CID V8 engine while introducing the first big-block powerplants, including the 348 in various configurations.
Chevrolet’s Triumph: The Rise of the 1958 Impala
Despite a challenging economic climate, Chevrolet enjoyed remarkable sales success, with the top-of-the-line Impala series capturing over 15 percent of the 1.1 million cars sold. This triumph not only secured Chevrolet’s position with 29.5 percent of the market in 1958 but also emphasized the striking design elements of the full-size models.
A Design Marvel: Stylistic Features of the 1958 Impala
Originally a trim line of the Bel Air series, the 1958 Impala was exclusively available as a sport coupe and convertible. Distinctive design elements set it apart, including Impala script, insignia, and crossed-flag emblems on the front cove. Large chrome-plated scoops adorned the rear wheel wells, and ribbed body sill panels added to its unique appeal.
The Chief Engineer’s Vision: Impala as a Symbol of Prestige
Chevrolet Chief Engineer Ed Cole envisioned the Impala as a “prestige car within reach of the average American citizen.” The 1958 Chevy Bel Airs featured one-year-only styling, offering a wide range of small-block and ‘W-head’ V8 powertrains. This marked the beginning of the Impala’s legacy as the best-selling car in the Chevrolet product line.
Conclusion
The 1958 Chevrolet Bel Air Series 1700 Series Impala Hardtop Sport Coupe is not just an automobile; it’s a symbol of an era. From gracing the silver screen to meticulous restoration, this car encapsulates the charm of the 1950s. Chevrolet’s innovative design and powerful engines made the 1958 Impala a symbol of prestige and success, solidifying its place in automotive history.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: What movie featured the 1958 Chevrolet Impala?
A: The 1958 Chevrolet Impala was prominently featured in the 1972 film ‘American Graffiti.’
Q: Who is the current owner of the 1958 Impala?
A: The current owner acquired the car in 2015 after years of pursuit. It was originally purchased from Lucasfilm, the production company behind the movie.
Q: How was the 1958 Impala restored to its original condition?
A: The restoration team meticulously documented every detail of the car by going through the movie frame by frame. The white Impala was disassembled, and each aspect of the vehicle was restored to match its appearance in the film.
Q: What engine was used in the 1958 Impala?
A: The original engine was missing, so a 327 with 6 Strombergs was installed to replicate the engine used in the movie.
