Series: Impala SSIn 1961, the Impala SS (Super Sport) was introduced to the market. The SS
badge was to become Chevrolet's signature of performance on many models, though
it has often been an appearance package only. The Impala's SS package in 1961
was truly a performance package, beginning with the high-performance 348 in³
(5.7 L) engines (available with 305, 340, and 350 hp (230, 255 and 260 kW)) or
the new 409 in³ (6.7 L), which was available with up to 425 hp.
The package also included upgraded tires on
station wagon wheels, springs, shocks and special sintered metallic brake
linings. Starting in 1962, the Impala SS could be had with any engine available
in the Impala, right down to the 235 in³ 135 hp inline-6. With one exception,
from this point until 1969, the SS was an appearance package only, though the
heavy-duty parts and big engines could still be ordered. From 1962 on, Super
Sports were limited to the hardtop coupe and convertible coupe exclusively.
The exception was the Z24 option package available in combination with the
standard Z03 Super Sport package. Starting in 1967, through 1969, buyers of Z24s
Impalas got cars badged as "SS427" models. The SS427 included heavy duty
suspension and other performance goodies, as well as a Turbo-Jet 427 in either
L36 or L72 variations. Special SS427 badging inside and out were the rule, but
few were sold, since muscle car enthusiasts were looking toward big-block
intermediates like the Chevelle SS396 and Plymouth Hemi Roadrunners, which were
lighter and subsequently faster off the line. Interestingly, Z24 cars could be
ordered without the Z03 SS package, which meant SS427 equipment but no bucket
seats or center console.
The Impala SS could be identified by SS emblems on the rear fenders and trunk
lid. The Impala SS became its own series (separate model rather than an option
package) for 1964. In 1968, the Impala SS once more became an option package
rather than having its own model. 1967 and 68 SS427s got a special domed hood
and body emblems, and the '68 featured gills on the front fenders in front of
the wheel opening, possible to remind people of its Corvette cousin. In 1969,
the Impala SS was only available as the Z24 (SS427), coming only with a
427 in³V8 of 390 or 425 hp. This was the final year for the Impala SS until
1994.
Another plus is that the 1969 Impala SS was the last year it came with the
Z24 SS 427 but the only year where front disc brakes became standard equipment,
along with 15 inch wheels, which made the 69 SS427 better then its older brother
the '68 SS 427 Impala. Although the 427 was replaced by the 454 Turbo-Jet V8 in
1970, the SS option was gone. Thus the 1969 Impala SS427 got the best of both
worlds, which is why it is so valuable today.
