What engine came in a 1959 Chevy Impala?
From the factory floor in 1959, the Impala offered a trio of engine families: a 235-cubic-inch inline-six, a 283-cubic-inch small-block V8, and Chevrolet’s new 348-cubic-inch big-block V8. Buyers could pair these with either a three-speed manual or the two-speed Powerglide automatic, depending on trim and options.
Engine lineup and era context
1959 marked a milestone year for Chevrolet’s full-size line. The Impala, positioned as the top trim, could be ordered with multiple powerplants to suit budget and performance desires. The introduction of the 348 big-block brought a new level of torque and potential horsepower to the model, while the 283 small-block V8 remained a common, versatile choice. Carburation varied by engine and package, and transmission options followed suit.
Engine options available for the 1959 Impala:
- 235.5 cubic-inch inline-six (straight-six) — a baseline, economical powerplant used in some body styles.
- 283 cubic-inch small-block V8 — offered with a two-barrel carburetor as standard, with a four-barrel option in higher trims.
- 348 cubic-inch big-block V8 — new for 1959, available with either a single four-barrel carburetor or the Tri-Power triple two-barrel setup for enhanced performance.
These engine choices illustrate how buyers could tailor the Impala from a practical family car to a performance-oriented cruiser within a single model year.
Specific configurations and how they were typically paired
Inline-six and base power
The inline-six served as the economical entry point for the Impala lineup, delivering reliable motive power and simpler maintenance. It was commonly paired with the manual gearbox, though some models could also be optioned with the automatic as demand dictated.
283 small-block V8
The 283 was Chevrolet’s popular small-block V8, widely available across body styles and trims. It came with a two-barrel carburetor as standard, with a four-barrel upgrade for higher performance and responsiveness in more premium configurations. Transmission choices typically included a three-speed manual or the Powerglide automatic.
348 big-block V8
Introduced in 1959, the 348 big-block was the most powerful option in the Impala lineup. Buyers could choose between a single four-barrel carburetor or the Tri-Power setup, which used three two-barrel carbs to maximize horsepower and top-end performance. This engine helped cement the Impala’s reputation for strong, era-defining performance.
Transmission options
Across the engine lineup, Chevrolet offered a three-speed manual in various configurations and the two-speed Powerglide automatic as a popular option for buyers seeking easier operation and better daily driving characteristics. The exact pairing depended on engine choice, trim level, and dealership availability.
Summary
The 1959 Chevrolet Impala could be equipped with three main engine families—the 235 inline-six, the 283 small-block V8, and the new 348 big-block V8—with multiple carburetion setups and manual or automatic transmissions. The year is especially notable for the 348’s introduction and the Tri-Power option, which helped define the era’s performance image for the Impala.
What is the difference between the 1960 and 1959 Impala?
The Impala's still managed to make a statement, though. 1959 models feature gracefully curved fins and prominent, cat-eye taillights, while the 1960 model foreshadows what was to come with more angular, trim fins and simple, round taillights that would become a Chevrolet trademark through 1965.
How much is a 1959 Chevy Impala worth today?
The price for a 1959 Chevy Impala varies widely, with a low-end range of about $21,995 for a car in poor condition and a high-end of over $275,000 for a pristine or custom model. Factors like condition, body style (e.g., coupe vs. convertible), and engine options significantly influence the final price, with excellent-condition and rare variants often exceeding $100,000.
Price breakdown by condition
- Low Retail: Around $15,700 - $21,995 (poor to fair condition)
- Average Retail: Around $34,100 - $109,665 (good to excellent condition)
- High Retail: Over $77,400 - $275,000 (excellent, show-quality, or highly customized condition)
Factors that affect price
- Condition: A vehicle's overall condition, including its paint, chrome, interior, and mechanical integrity, is a primary price driver.
- Body Style: Convertibles and Sport Coupes are often more valuable than sedans.
- Engine and Options: Models with factory fuel injection, a larger engine like a 348 cubic inch V8, or other rare options will command higher prices.
- Restoration and Customization: A professionally restored car or a highly customized "restomod" (restored/modified) can be significantly more expensive, with some listed for $150,000 or more.
What is so special about the 1959 Impala?
The 1959 Chevy Impala Sports Sedan is distinct from the 4-door hardtop, featuring unique trim and roofline. The Tripower setup includes three two-barrel carburetors paired with a high-lift camshaft and solid lifters, enhancing performance.
What engine does a 1959 Impala have?
Second generation (1959–1960)
| Second generation | |
|---|---|
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | 235 cu in (3.9 L) Blue Flame I6 283 cu in (4.6 L) Turbo Fire V8 348 cu in (5.7 L) W-series Turbo Thrust V8 |
| Transmission | 2-speed Powerglide automatic 3-speed (close-ratio) manual 3-speed overdrive manual 3-speed Turboglide automatic 4-speed manual |
