Did a 1965 Impala come with a 409 engine?
Yes. A 1965 Impala could be ordered with Chevrolet's 409 cubic-inch V8, most famously in the high-performance SS 409 option.
Context: the 1965 Impala engine lineup
For the 1965 model year, Chevrolet offered a range of big-block and small-block V8 choices in the full-size Impala. The 409 cubic-inch V8—part of Chevrolet’s Turbo-Jet family—was the centerpiece of the performance-oriented SS trim. While base Impalas could be equipped with smaller engines, the 409 was available as a factory option on SS models and in some other configurations. The 409 is closely associated with early-’60s Chevrolets and remains a defining symbol of the era’s performance image.
The SS 409 connection
The SS 409 package is the most famous route to a 1965 Impala with this engine. It offered heightened horsepower and distinctive styling cues that set it apart from other Impalas of the same year. Availability depended on build date, body style, and option combinations, but buyers could indeed order a 1965 Impala with a 409 under the SS badge.
What to know when authenticating a 1965 Impala with a 409
Authenticating a 1965 Impala with a 409 involves confirming the original engine and trim codes, checking the engine stamping, and reviewing the build sheet or window sticker that identify the 409 option and SS equipment. Collectors often verify matching numbers and provenance to confirm that the car is an authentic SS 409 configuration rather than a later swap or misrepresented model.
Summary
The 1965 Impala did offer a 409 engine, most notably in the high-performance SS 409 variant. This combination—Impala plus the Turbo-Jet 409—remains a hallmark of the era and a prized find for classic Chevrolets enthusiasts and collectors today.
What engine came in a 1965 Impala?
1965 Chevy Impala Specs & Models
| Engine Displacement | Years Applicable | Bore / Stroke |
|---|---|---|
| 230ci | 1965 | 3.875 x 3.25 |
| 283ci | 1965-67 | 3.875 x 3.00 |
| 327ci (250hp) | 1965 | 4.000 x 3.25 |
| 327ci (300hp) | 1965 | 4.000 x 3.25 |
What year did Impala have a 409?
The Chevrolet Impala offered the 409 engine from 1961 through 1965, with the engine being a popular high-performance option during those years. It was famously featured in the Beach Boys' song "409", and was an iconic part of the muscle car era.
- 1961: The 409 became available for the first time, notably in the Impala SS.
- 1962–1964: The 409 remained a key option, becoming a legendary engine known for its power and street/drag racing performance.
- 1965: Chevrolet offered the 409 in the Impala, but the engine was later replaced by the 396 cubic-inch engine. About 2,800 Impalas were built with the 409 before it was pulled from production.
How many 65 Impala 409 were made?
2,828 409s
This car was the end of an era! Only 2,828 409s were made, that's only . 2%!
Did Chevrolet make a 409 in 1965?
The full-size 1965 Chevrolet was a million-selling car, but not very many were painted or powered like this one. This was the last year for the 409-cubic-inch V-8.
