Perfect Project: 1964 Chevrolet Impala Two-Door Hardtop – SOLD!

February 11, 2022 Update – We confirmed the seller of this “Classifind” deleted their listing, so we’re now able to call this one “SOLD!” While this one got away, please reach out either by email or call us directly if you’d like to be informed when we come across something similar.

What is the perfect classic car project? From our perspective, it’s one in which the bulk of the hard stuff is already completed by someone else with their time money. Whether it’s due to losing interest or other personal factors, they have decided to sell their project before it’s complete.  This 1964 Chevrolet Impala two-door hardtop originally listed on Craigslist in January 2022 in Indiana, Pennsylvania (Pittsburgh) checks all of the right boxes for us and is at a point where the next caretaker can either restore the car or more likely, follow the Street Machine, Restomod, or Low Rider path.

First is the paint and bodywork. This 1964 Chevrolet Impala Hardtop features a fresh paint job on what the seller describes as a solid “NO putty” body. As long as you like the color, all is good. Next is the interior. While the current custom cloth and vinyl presents very nicely, you have the chance now to either have door cars made to match or go with a complete restoration quality replacement interior. Next is the drivetrain. This example features a non-original but freshly rebuilt 350 cubic inch small block V8 paired with a TurboHydramatic 350.  He mentions the availability of a 409 motor but makes no claims it’s from this car.  Finally, is the trim. The seller states all the trim needed is included.  This project car checks all the right boxes that someone can buy it not as a winter project and still have it road-ready in time for summer.

Currently offered at $26,500, comparing that price against the Hagerty Insurance Online Valuation Tool confirms the private seller has 1964 Chevrolet Impala Two Door Hardtop priced between this guide’s #3 “Good” estimate of $20,900 and its #2 “Excellent” appraisal of $27,600.  Similarly, the  Collector Car Market Review Online Tool reveals the seller’s ask falls between this guide’s #2 “Very Good” estimate of $23,500 and its #1 “Excellent” appraisal of $35,300. We’re pleased to see the seller has set a price that recognizes they have put the hard work in but is not so high that they are trying to recoup all of their investment to date.

Chevrolet produced the third-generation Impala on the GM B platform for the first time in 1961. The new body styling was more trim and boxy than the 1958–1960 models. Sport Coupe models featured a “bubble back” roof line style for 1961. A “Super Sport” (SS) option debuted for 1961.

For 1964, the Impala was restyled to a more rounded, softer look. The signature taillight assembly had an “upside-down U” shaped aluminum trim strip above the taillights, but the individual lights were surrounded by a body-colored panel. The 409 cu in (6.7 L) V8 engine returned as the big-block option, as well as the Carter AFB 2X4-barrel carburetors setup for the 425 brake horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 425 pound-feet of torque at 4,200 rpm. SS models continued to feature the engine-turned aluminum trim. Rooflines were carried over from 1963 unchanged. Back-up lights were standard.

The Osborn Tramain YouTube Channel features this 1964 Chevrolet Impala commercial that boggles the mind on how dangerous it was to stage it and would likely not even be allowed today:

The 1964 Impala is one of the most sought-after examples among Low-Rider enthusiasts. A project this far along could easily be taken down that path.  While the rebuilt powertrain negates Concours class judging, this 1964 Chevrolet Impala two-door hardtop could also be finished as a nice street machine.

Here’s the seller’s description:

“1964 Chevy Impala available with restoration nearly completed except for the interior and trim. Brand New Paint. Freshly rebuilt small block Chevy engine and a turbo 350 transmission. Excellent condition. All parts for trim and interior are included to complete this restoration project. Solid car with NO putty.
If interested, sold separately, 1963 Factory “409” motor. Information and pictures upon request.“

Restoration, Street Machine, or Low Rider: How would you finish this 1964 Chevrolet Impala Hardtop project?  Comment below and let us know!