170 hp, 283 cu. in. overhead valve V-8 engine, three-speed manual transmission, independent front suspension with coil springs, live rear axle suspension, and four-wheel drum brakes. Wheelbase: 119 in.

• Striking Roman Red exterior

• Perfect for cruising

• Offered from the Zegwaard Collection

When the 1961 Chevrolets were introduced, Harley Earl’s “longer, lower, and wider” mantra had been abandoned. The bodies were smaller and the fins were gone, but under the smaller package lay the same potent components. The independent front suspension and live rear axle remained, and so too did a choice of six- and eight-cylinder engines. For 1961, the 283-, 348-, and 409-cubic inch V-8s were offered. Those V-8s were incredibly popular because they were smooth and powerful and just about bulletproof. They were also the key to Chevrolet’s position as the market leader in North America.

Once again, the Impala was Chevy’s top range offering. Like all Impalas, the convertible was distinguished by three taillights per side, and it held an important place in the line-up. This good looking Roman Red Impala convertible was the subject of a complete restoration. Trimmed in the correct red vinyl with red carpets, it rolls on original steel wheels with hubcaps and cross ply tyres. The manual transmission is equipped with a column shifter, or what Americans call a “three-on-the-tree”. The hood is power-operated, and the original transistor radio picks up its signal by way of a pair of antennas. With attention to the brakes and a light under the bonnet detail, this car would be perfect for a road trip, a day at the beach, or a visit to a local show.