Your Free Internet Calendar For All Events On Wheels
Rare doesn't always equate to valuable, as this 1963 Impala SS convertible with a straight-six engine proves!

November, 2015 - Richard Lentinello
Yes, you read that headline correctly. This Impala SS convertible is powered by a straight-six engine--Chevrolet's tried-and-true 230 Turbo-Thrift overhead-valve six-cylinder. For far too long, enthusiasts have thought that an SS-equipped Impala meant that it was a high-performance model, but it wasn't. The SS package was simply a sporty decorative option and bucket seats, and not much more. More significantly, back in 1963 a buyer could order the SS's RPO Z03 package on any body style, be it a hardtop, convertible or sedan, with either the V-8 or straight-six. This black SS convertible is proof.
While most enthusiasts hold the 409-powered Impalas in high esteem, the opposite is true about those Impalas with two fewer cylinders. Because most of the six-cylinder-powered cars--having either been sent to the crusher or converted into V-8s by hot rodders, those base-level sixes that were once commonplace--are now the truly rare Impalas. Unfortunately, rarity doesn't always equate to desirable, or valuable. Thankfully, there are some enthusiasts who know rare cars when they see them, and take the time, effort and expense to restore them as authentically as possible, regardless of the powertrain.
See the rest of this article click here.
Thank you to Hemmings. CA
Posted by Michael Thies on June 29, 2026 at 2:00pm
When Concours Was About More Than the Car by Mike Thies
The Concours d’Elegance did not begin as a car show in the way most people think of one today. The idea goes back to Europe, where the word simply meant a “competition of elegance.” Long before automobiles, wealthy owners paraded fine carriages, fine horses, and fine clothes. When automobiles replaced carriages, the same idea carried over. The…
ContinuePosted by Michael Thies on June 23, 2026 at 10:30am
© 2026 Created by Global Wheels Events.
Powered by
You need to be a member of SOUTH EAST USA WHEELS EVENTS-Car and Motorcycle Events Calendar to add comments!
Join SOUTH EAST USA WHEELS EVENTS-Car and Motorcycle Events Calendar