How fast does an Impala SS go?
An Impala SS can reach about 150 mph in late-model versions, with 0–60 mph times typically in the mid to high 5-second range. Speeds vary significantly by generation and engine.
To understand how fast an Impala SS can go, it’s important to distinguish between the iconic 1960s SS models and Chevrolet’s late-2000s SS, which share a badge but sit in very different eras of performance. Each era depends on engine, gearing, and electronics, so the speed figures range widely. The following sections outline the main figures for the modern SS and the classic SS versions.
Modern Impala SS (2004–2006)
Details below focus on the late-model SS that used a big V8 under the hood and a traditional automatic transmission, delivering quicker straight-line performance for a full-size sedan.
Performance highlights
- 0–60 mph: about 5.7 seconds
- Top speed: electronically limited to about 150 mph
- Quarter-mile: roughly 14.0 seconds at around 100 mph
These figures reflect stock, showroom-spec cars under typical conditions. Real-world results can vary with wear, weather, and tire choice.
Classic Impala SS (1961–1969)
The classic SS lineup relied on large-displacement V8s and a variety of transmissions, producing impressive straight-line speed for its era but with handling and braking that reflect the period’s technology.
Performance ranges
- 0–60 mph: typically 6–7 seconds in stock form
- Top speed: roughly 130–150 mph depending on engine and gearing
- Notable engines: big-block V8s such as the 409 and 427 offered the highest performance, with horsepower and tuning varying by year
Classic Impala SS models could reach high speeds for their time, though their overall sports-car-like handling was limited compared with modern performance cars.
Summary
Across generations, the Impala SS spans two distinct performance philosophies. Modern SS models (circa 2004–2006) typically reach about 150 mph with 0–60 times in the mid-to-high 5-second range, while classic 1960s SS variants depend heavily on the specific big-block engine and gearing, commonly achieving 0–60 in roughly 6–7 seconds and top speeds around 130–150 mph. The badge denotes performance within its era, and exact speeds vary by year, engine, drivetrain, and condition.
How fast is a 2006 Impala SS?
The top speed of a 2006 Impala SS is electronically limited to 130 mph, not 160 mph as stated in one source which refers to the Chevrolet SS, a different model. The 2006 Impala SS is a practical sedan with a 5.3L V8 engine that can go from 0-60 mph in as little as 5.6 seconds.
You can watch this video to see a 2006 Chevy Impala SS being driven: 59sThe Car Addict YouTube · Jun 30, 2025
- Electronically limited top speed: 130 mph.
- Engine: 5.3L V8.
- 0-60 mph: Approximately 5.6 seconds.
- Horsepower: 303 horsepower.
How much HP is an Impala SS?
260 hp @ 5,000
Technical Specifications. The heart of the Impala SS is its Corvette-derived LT1 engine: 5.7L (350 cubic inch) V8 engine. 260 hp @ 5,000 rpm.
Is the Chevy SS a sleeper?
Corvette. That's right a Corvette engine in a family sedan 415 horsepower and 415 lb feet of torque. And a 0 to 60 time of 4.5. Seconds that's the same as the Porsche Cayman GTS.
How fast can an Impala SS go?
And 330 torque for a big four-door that weighed over 4,200 lb the 95 Impala SS could hustle magazine tests from Car and Driver recorded a/4 mile time in 15 seconds at 92 mph.
