What engines were available in a 1965 Impala?
In short, the 1965 Chevrolet Impala offered a range of engines from a 230 cu in inline-six up to several V8 options, including 283, 327, 396 and 409 cubic inches, with the SS performance models steering toward the bigger powerplants.
During the 1965 model year, Chevrolet equipped the Impala with a variety of powertrains to cover everything from economical daily driving to higher-performance applications. The lineup spanned a base inline-six, several small-block V8 choices, and big-block V8s that powered the more deluxe and performance-oriented Impalas. Availability depended on the trim level and option package, making engine choice a key part of how buyers configured their car.
Core engine families available in the 1965 Impala
The following engines were commonly available across the 1965 Impala lineup, with some variations by model and options.
- 230 cubic inch inline-six
- 283 cubic inch small-block V8
- 327 cubic inch V8
- 396 cubic inch big-block V8
- 409 cubic inch big-block V8
Notes: Engine availability varied by trim and option package. The base Impala often started with the 230 I-6 or the 283 V8, while the 327, 396 and 409 engines were typically chosen for higher-trim models and the SS performance line. Horsepower and performance ratings varied by carburetion and compression specifications for each engine.
Performance-oriented options and the Impala SS
For buyers seeking sportier performance, the Impala SS offered several high-performance V8 options. In many cases, this included larger-displacement big-block engines, notably the 396 or 409, paired with styling and interior features that signaled a focus on speed and presence. Chevrolet also employed different power ratings over the model year as emission and marketing practices evolved, so exact horsepower figures depended on the specific build and date of manufacture.
Summary: The 1965 Impala's engine lineup reflected Chevrolet's broad approach to full-size powertrains—ranging from economical inline-six options to a spectrum of V8s, with the SS package serving as the gateway to the more powerful big-block configurations.
What engine does a 1965 Chevy Impala have?
The 1965 Chevrolet Impala equipped with the 327 cubic inch V8 offered a well-balanced blend of performance, refinement, and daily usability. The 327 was part of Chevrolet's small-block V8 family and had already built a strong reputation for its lively performance and reliability.
What was special about the 1965 Impala?
1965 Super Sport exteriors differed only slightly from regular Impalas. Rocker panel trim was deleted. "Super Sport" scripts replaced the "Impala" fender badges. The new center console housed a rally-type electric clock, and full instrumentation now included a vacuum gauge.
How many 1965 Impalas had 409 engines?
The 1965 Impala debuted with a 409ci unit on the options list, but Chevrolet rapidly pulled this engine and introduced a 396 to deliver similar performance. Approximately 2,800 Impalas were fitted with the 409 before the engine was pulled, and fewer boasted the Super Sport streaming.
How much is a 1965 Impala worth today?
Typically, you can expect to pay around $15,041 for a 1965 Chevrolet Impala in good condition with average spec. The highest selling price of a 1965 Chevrolet Impala at auction over the last three years was $49,087.
