This ’61 Impala Convertible Reflects Changing Styles and Attitudes

This 1961 Chevy Impala convertible is a beautiful example of early 60's styling and performance.

The period between 1957 and 1962 is a time when automotive styling was searching for its new direction. This 1961 Chevy Impala convertible that we found on Fore Play Racing’s website is a great example of that transition period. Until recently cars from these model years were overlooked as possible projects. But the style and engineering of that time along with today’s technological advances make these cars very desirable.

The ‘jet age’ was in full swing and longer, lower, wider was the inspiration for the styling cues of the day. The views from the front and the profile announced that this is the car of the 60s! Chrome bright work was still liberally applied; however the huge Dagmar bumpers of earlier times were deflating to a more subdued size.

The once prominent tail-fins that adorned many of the previous era’s favorite cars had now receded to stylized eyebrows protruding over the taillights. But comfort and roominess was an absolute must! Seating for six adults and a trunk larger than some New York City apartments rounded out the package.

Front and rear styling gave style hints of the past while moving in a new direction

Roominess and comfort were non-negotiable requirements in this model. With the top stowed away passenger areas feel unlimited.

Then there is power! The whole package conveyed the idea that the decade was on the move. If you want to keep up, drive this car. This was also the era when the Big Three manufacturers made major advances in engine design and horsepower production. During this time the Chevy 409 was leading the way in performance and would soon achieve legendary status.

Cars like this one are quite rare as there are not too many of them left to build. But occasionally one comes along to remind us that this era had a lot of influence on the automotive industry. This piece of restored history is for sale and can also be seen on eBay. It’s not going to be cheap…but then again great art never is!