What engines were available in a 1958 Chevy Impala?

The 1958 Impala offered two main engine families: a 235.5 cubic-inch inline-six and a 283 cubic-inch small-block V8 available in several carburation configurations, including higher-performance options and, on select models, a fuel-injected setup.

Core powerplants

Chevrolet’s 1958 lineup combined reliability with performance potential. The Impala could be equipped with a straightforward inline-six for everyday driving or with a robust V8 that spanned multiple carburation levels to boost output.

• 235.5 cubic-inch inline-six (Blue Flame Six) — a durable six for economy-minded buyers and standard-power models.


• 283 cubic-inch small-block V8 with a two-barrel carburetor — the entry-level V8 option for higher trim levels and most Impalas.


• 283 cubic-inch small-block V8 with a four-barrel carburetor — a step up for buyers seeking more performance.


• 283 cubic-inch small-block V8 with Tri-Power (three two-barrel carburetors) — a high-performance setup available on select Impalas and higher-trim Bel Air/Impala models.


• 283 cubic-inch small-block V8 with fuel injection (RAM-JET) — a rare, limited-option fuel-injection setup offered on some late-1950s builds.

These configurations varied by model year, trim level, and regional availability. Most base and mid-range Impalas leaned toward the inline-six or the 283 with a two-barrel carburetor, while top-line models could be ordered with the more powerful 283 configurations or the Tri-Power setup.

How the engines paired with trim and options

The Impala lineup reflected Chevrolet’s approach to balancing economy with performance. Buyers choosing an entry-level configuration could opt for the inline-six or the 283 with a single two-barrel carburetor, while those aiming for sportier credentials often selected the 283 with four-barrel or Tri-Power. The rare RAM-JET fuel-injection option appeared on a limited number of high-end builds, underscoring the era’s experimentation with new technology.

In practice, engine availability depended on the model year, body style, and the particular ordering package. Dealers could assemble an Impala with a range of drivetrains to match customer priorities—from thrift and reliability to performance and flair.

Summary

For the 1958 Chevrolet Impala, the engine choices broke down to two families: a 235.5 cu in inline-six and a 283 cu in small-block V8 with multiple carburation options (two-barrel, four-barrel, Tri-Power), plus a rare RAM-JET fuel-injected variant on select builds. The combination of options allowed buyers to tailor the Impala to daily commuting needs or higher-performance aspirations, all within Chevrolet’s flagship full-size lineup of the era.

What size was the largest engine offered in the 1958 Chevrolet cars?

The big-block, which debuted in 1958 at 348 cu in (5.7 L), was built in standard displacements up to 496 cu in (8.1 L), with aftermarket crate engines sold by Chevrolet exceeding 500 cu in (8.2 L).

What was the top speed of the 1958 Impala?

It featured a 5.7L V8 engine producing around 250 horsepower and 481 Nm of torque. The Impala came with a 3-speed manual transmission and had a top speed of approximately 130 mph.

How much is a 1958 Chevy Impala worth today?

The price for a 1958 Chevy Impala varies widely, but a good condition car is typically worth around $51,527, while prices for those in excellent condition can reach $249,000 or more. Pricing depends heavily on factors like condition, mileage, and specific options.
 
Price range by condition

• Low-end: Prices can start around $25,495 for a car in rougher condition. 
• Average/Good: A typical price for a good condition Impala is around $51,527. 
• High-end: Top-tier, show-quality cars can be priced as high as $249,000 or even more. 

Factors that influence price

• Condition: A vehicle's overall condition is the most significant factor. A well-maintained or restored car will command a much higher price. 
• Mileage: Lower mileage generally increases the value. 
• Options and engine: Special features, like a desirable engine (e.g., a 348 V8 or a 454 V8), or rare options will affect the final price. 
• Body style: A convertible Impala will typically be more expensive than a coupe. 
• Restoration: A "frame-off" restoration can significantly increase the value. 

What engines did the 1958 Chevrolet Impala have?

The 1958 Chevrolet Impala offered a range of engine options, including a standard 235 cubic-inch inline-six and several V8s: a 283 cubic-inch engine with varying horsepower, and the 348 cubic-inch big-block V8, which was the most powerful and came in multiple configurations, including the top-of-the-line "Tri-Power" version.
 
Inline-six

• 235 cubic-inch: The standard engine, also known as the "Blue-Flame" six-cylinder. 

This video discusses the standard six-cylinder engine and V8 options of the 1958 Chevrolet Impala: 59sRare Classic Cars & Automotive HistoryYouTube · Oct 25, 2024
V8 options

• 283 cubic-inch: Available in a few versions, including a base model with a two-barrel carburetor (185 hp) and a more powerful version with a four-barrel carburetor (230 hp). An optional Ram-Jet fuel-injected version produced 250 hp. 
• 348 cubic-inch: The big-block V8, which was a new and powerful option for the year. 
  • Base version: A four-barrel "Turbo-Thrust" that produced 250 hp. 
  • "Tri-Power" version: A "Super Turbo-Thrust" with three two-barrel carburetors that delivered 280 hp. 
  • Special version: A "Special Turbo-Thrust" with a single four-barrel carburetor was rated at 305 hp.