For 1958, the styling of the full-size Chevrolets was fresh and new, and the cars were longer, lower, wider, and more luxurious. The trusty 283 remained the mainstay powerplant, but new for 1958 was the first of the company’s legendary big blocks. The new 348 was available in four different states of tune. Despite a weak American economy, Chevrolet’s sales remained strong, and the new high-line Impala series accounted for more than 15 percent of sales. Chevrolet continued to dominate the low-price field, as more than 1.1 million cars were sold.

The Impala, a trim line of the Bel Air series for 1958, was at the very top of the Chevrolet range, and it was offered only in sport coupe and convertible versions. Trim features included Impala script, insignia, and crossed-flag emblems at the front of the cove; broad ribbed body sill panels; large dummy chrome-plated scoops ahead of the rear wheel wells; and two-spoke deep hub steering wheels with Impala medallions.

The Bel Air Impala Sport Coupe offered here is one of the finest examples that RM Sotheby’s has had the pleasure of offering, and it is a standout by any measure or standard. It was restored from the ground up and is perfect in every detail. The paint on the undercarriage and within the fender wells is as outstanding as the paint on the hood. All of the stainless trim is highly polished and perfectly straight, and all of the chrome is of concours quality. The doors close with the slightest touch. Notably, the body has been lowered very slightly on the suspension, which only serves to enhance the menacing beauty of the car’s voluptuous lines. It rides on steel wheels with stainless “spinner” hubcaps, which are shod in wide whitewall radial tires.

Options on the car include the 348–cubic inch V-8 with Tri-Power, an R704 automatic transmission, power steering, power brakes, power windows, a power seat, a dashboard-mounted clock, an AM radio with a dual antenna, a rear-mounted Continental kit, and Vintage Air air conditioning, which has been well installed under the dashboard. The engine exhales through a dual exhaust for more power and a wonderful note, and it has been fitted with auxiliary electric fans and an upgraded alternator to improve reliability. The car has been driven fewer than 400 miles since it was restored, preserving its exceptional condition.

This is an Impala that will stand out in any collection as one of the best-restored examples in the world.