For 1958, all Chevrolets used an all-new, one-year-only bodyshell shared with Pontiac. It featured a low-slung, X-member frame and four-wheel coil suspension, replacing the old leaf springs. Also new for 1958 was the top-of-the-line Impala available in two-door hardtop and convertible models. Ads touted the beauty and the “low, thrusting silhouette” of the full-size models—up to nine inches longer and five inches lower, on a 2.5-inch longer wheelbase than before. Impala interiors featured a nifty competition-inspired steering wheel and color-keyed door panels with brushed aluminum trim. The 348-cubic inch V-8 was the new top engine choice for ’58, as bigger was not only better, but necessary in the escalating horsepower wars.

Everything was so new that even the series designations were changed: Delray, Biscayne, Bel Air, and Impala. Apparently this worked, as Chevrolet reclaimed the top spot in sales from Ford and captured 29.5 percent of the market that year. Despite its sales success, this was a one-year-only model, as the 1959 models were all-new yet again. Priced new at $2,841 before options, this is one of 55,800 Impala convertibles produced for 1958.

Quite possibly the nicest example available, this spectacular Impala hails from a collection of meticulously prepared and maintained automobiles that are of the highest standards. It was the beneficiary of a body-off restoration by J.R. Burkholder of Paradise, Pennsylvania, in 2004–2005 and has accumulated just 180 miles since restoration. Meanwhile, it has always been stored in a climate-controlled environment.

Attesting to the quality of the restoration, it received Antique Automobile Club of America 1st Junior and Senior awards in 2007, along with a Post War Car Award Southeastern Division that same year. In 2007, it was the recipient of the Best Interior Award and the 1st Place 1958 Trailered Restored Car from the Classic Chevy Club, where it scored 997 out of a possible 1,000 points. It remains in meticulous and pampered condition to this day. Painted Cay Coral with a matching interior and white convertible roof, it is loaded with accessories and is equipped with the desirable 280-horsepower 348 “Tri-Power” V-8 with three two-barrel carburetors, three-speed manual transmission, and posi-traction rear axle.

The myriad of options include power steering, brakes, windows, and seat; windshield washers; tinted glass; left and right outside rearview mirrors; day/night interior rearview mirror; dual rear antennas; rear fender skirts; Wonderbar AM radio; rear seat speaker; tissue dispenser; ash tray, under dash courtesy, emergency brake, underhood, and trunk lights; along with new old-stock continental kit, wheel covers with spinners, and accessory rubber floor mats. The proper jack, lug wrench, and boot for the convertible top are also included.

Make no mistake, if you are looking for one of the finest examples of the ’58 Chevrolet convertible, this is it!