How much is a 1959 Impala worth today?
Prices vary widely, with rough projects often under $20,000 and pristine, well-documented convertibles frequently exceeding six figures.
The 1959 Chevrolet Impala is a landmark collectible, celebrated for its bold styling and historical significance. Values today hinge on condition, originality, provenance, and the desirability of the specific body style and options. This article outlines the main factors that influence price, provides typical market ranges, and offers guidance for evaluating a 1959 Impala in today’s market.
Factors that influence value
Condition and originality
Condition is the single biggest driver of value. A numbers-matching engine and transmission, a solid body with minimal rust, and an interior that retains period-correct materials can push prices higher. Restorations that are done to exact factory specifications often fetch premium, especially when documented with receipts and a clear restoration trail.
Body style and trim
Convertibles and 2-door hardtops—especially with desirable options like the SS package or a rare color/order combo—tend to command higher prices than 4-door models or sedans. The presence of correct insignia, wheel covers, and trim pieces also matters to collectors.
Documentation and provenance
Cars with verifiable history, official build sheets, documented restoration work, and ownership lineage can realize stronger market values. Thorough documentation lowers perceived risk for buyers and can significantly impact price, particularly for high-end examples.
Current market ranges
Below are approximate price bands that reflect current market data from classic-car marketplaces and auction results as of 2024–2025. Actual prices vary by market, location, and the individual vehicle’s condition and history.
- Project or basket-case: typically $8,000–$20,000. These require substantial work, parts, and restoration time.
- Runner/driving project: typically $20,000–$40,000. Runs and can be driven, but may need interior, cosmetic, or mechanical work.
- Solid driver/restoration candidate: typically $40,000–$90,000. Clean, presentable, and mechanically reliable with some restoration done or well-preserved.
- Excellent show-quality/restored with correct details: typically $90,000–$150,000. Highly polished and correct in most aspects, often with documentation.
- Top-tier, documented, matching-numbers convertibles or highly optioned SS models: typically $150,000–$250,000+, with rare, exceptionally original or concours-grade examples potentially higher.
Market realities can shift with dealer inventories, auction results, and regional demand. For precise value, consult current price guides and recent sales in your area, and consider a professional appraisal for a specific vehicle.
Which body styles matter most for value
Value often correlates with how rare or desirable a given body style is, as well as the presence of performance or luxury options.
- Convertibles: Generally the most valuable due to limited production numbers and high desirability.
- 2-door hardtops (including the popular “bubble” or “bubble-top” designs): Highly sought after and typically command strong prices when well presented and documented.
- 4-door models and sedans: More affordable on average but can fetch strong prices if they’re rare variants or well-restored.
In practice, a clean, documented convertible or top-condition hardtop with the right options often leads the market, while well-preserved or restored sedans tend to sit at lower price points unless they have standout provenance.
How to estimate value for a 1959 Impala you’re considering
Use this practical checklist to gauge value before buying or selling, recognizing that the final price depends on the specifics of the car in front of you.
- Verify authenticity and numbers matching: engine, transmission, and axle codes matching the build sheet or factory documentation.
- Assess the body: look for rust, bondo, panel alignment, and repaint quality; assess whether bodywork is period-appropriate.
- Inspect the interior and trim: confirm original or period-correct materials, gauges, dials, and chrome trim; check for signs of restoration or replacement with non-original parts.
- Evaluate mechanicals: test the drivetrain, suspension, brakes, steering, and electrical systems; determine what will be required to make it roadworthy or concours-ready.
- Check documentation and provenance: build sheets, previous ownership history, receipts for restoration, and any awards or show records.
- Compare with recent market data: review recent sales at Mecum, Barrett-Ji, Gooding & Co., and regional auctions, as well as price guides from Hagerty or NADA for context.
- Factor restoration or maintenance costs: obtain quotes for potentially needed work to reach your desired condition.
With these checks, you can form a grounded expectation of value and negotiate confidently. If you’re aiming for a showroom-condition example, budgeting for a high-end restoration or purchase of an already top-tier car is essential, as these vehicles are scarce and prices reflect that rarity.
What to watch when buying
Buying a 1959 Impala requires careful due diligence beyond asking price. Consider the following safeguards to avoid overpaying or acquiring a car with hidden issues.
- Have a trusted classic-car mechanic or appraiser inspect the vehicle before purchase.
- Request full photographic documentation of bodywork and interior restoration, with dated progress photos if possible.
- Check for matching numbers, correct options, and factory markings; misrepresented trim or engine swaps can dramatically affect value.
- Ask for a clear title history and any lien information; ensure ownership can be transferred smoothly.
- Compare the asking price to multiple reputable sources to ensure it aligns with current market values for similar configurations.
Being thorough at the outset helps you secure fair value and reduces the risk of surprises after purchase.
Summary
The value of a 1959 Impala today hinges on condition, originality, body style, provenance, and market demand. While rough projects may sit in the low tens of thousands, well-restored or highly optioned models—especially convertibles and two-door hardtops with strong documentation—can reach six-figure prices or more. Use a structured approach to assess authenticity, inspect mechanicals, and compare recent sales to determine fair value, and consult current price guides for ongoing market trends. With diligence, buyers and sellers can navigate the vibrant market for this iconic late-1950s American classic.
