280 bhp, 348 cu. in. OHV V-8 engine, two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission, independent coil spring front suspension, live rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs, four-wheel hydraulic power drum brakes. Wheelbase: 119"

• Triple-carburetor Super Turbo-Thrust 280 bhp V-8

• Older restoration with new interior and top

• Three owners from new

With the introduction of “The Hot One,” the spirited new small-block V-8 for 1955, sales leader Chevrolet also became the performance leader in the low-priced field. Successive upgrades in 1956 and 1957 retained this edge, the latter boasting fuel injection and achieving the magic one-bhp-per-cubic-inch for its 283 cid engine.

A complete redesign heralded 1958, the flagship of which was a new Impala subseries in the Bel Air line, appearing in two body styles only, a convertible and an attractive “Sport Coupe” two-door hardtop. Impalas took Chevrolet’s styling cues to new heights, with uniquely-contoured rear fenders and extra taillights. A new engine, originally designed for truck use, joined the small-block V-8. Displacing 348 cubic inches, it was available in several stages of tune, producing 250 to 315 bhp.

All General Motors cars were redesigned for 1959, a reaction to Chrysler Corporation’s dramatic finned 1957s. Chevrolet featured a gull-wing rear fender adornment and long horizontal “eyebrows” in the leading edge of the hood. The top series was now called “Impala” across the board and offered a four-door sedan, two- and four-door hardtops, a convertible and a four-door Nomad station wagon.

This 1959 Impala Convertible presents nicely in Crown Sapphire, with a light and medium turquoise vinyl interior. It has had only three owners from new and received a full rotisserie restoration in 1995. The top and upholstery were redone in 2010.

Powered by the 280 bhp, 348-cubic inch Super Turbo-Thrust engine with triple two-barrel carburetion, it has the Powerglide transmission and Positraction. Equipped with dual exhausts, power brakes and power steering, it also has a Wonderbar signal-seeking radio with dual antennas, spinner hubcaps, windshield washers and E-Z Eye tinted glass. Other accessories include a tissue dispenser and a Cadillac-inspired grille guard. With tri-power carburetion and a terrific color combination, this is an excellent Impala all around.