Did the 1965 Impala SS come with a 283 engine?
The 1965 Impala SS did not come with the 283 cubic-inch engine as part of the factory SS lineup. The SS package for that year was paired with larger V8s, such as the 327 and the big-block options, while the 283 was used in non‑SS Impala models.
In this article, we’ll review the SS’s place in the 1965 Chevrolets, outline the engine options typically associated with the SS trim, and explain why the 283 is generally not listed as a standard SS engine. We’ll also touch on how to verify an original SS car today.
Context: The 1965 Impala SS and its engine lineup
Chevrolet introduced the Impala SS (Super Sport) as the performance-oriented trim for the full‑size Impala in the mid‑1960s. For 1965, buyers who selected the SS package commonly opted for more powerful V8s rather than the smaller 283 cubic-inch engine. The SS badge was tied to performance enhancements, which typically meant bigger displacement engines and related performance equipment rather than the smallest Chevy V8s used earlier in the lineup.
Engine options for the 1965 Impala SS
Before listing the engines, note that the SS option in 1965 was not built around the 283. The following V8 choices were the ones most commonly associated with the SS trim for that year:
- 327 cubic inch V8
- 396 cubic inch V8
- 409 cubic inch V8 (available on some SS configurations)
Conclusion from the engine lineup: the 283 cubic inch engine was not a typical or official SS engine option in 1965. If you encounter an Impala SS described as having a 283, it may be a non‑original modification or a mislabel, rather than factory SS specification. To confirm authenticity, check the car’s VIN/trim tag and engine stamping against Chevrolet documentation for the model year.
Summary
In short, the 1965 Impala SS did not include the 283 as a standard SS engine. The typical SS engine options were the 327 and the big-block 396 (with some cars potentially offering the 409). The 283 was more commonly found in non‑SS Impalas, and any 283-equipped SS would be an exception rather than the rule. Always verify with the vehicle’s original paperwork and stamping to confirm authenticity.
