1966 Chevrolet Impala SS, a name synonymous with American muscle car culture, embodies the spirit of the 1960s. This iconic vehicle, a true masterpiece of automotive design, captivated the nation with its sleek lines, powerful engine, and luxurious interior. The Impala SS wasn’t just a car; it was a symbol of freedom, power, and the American dream, leaving an indelible mark on automotive history and pop culture.
The 1966 Impala SS was a culmination of Chevrolet’s engineering prowess and a response to the growing demand for performance cars. Its powerful engine options, coupled with its stylish exterior and comfortable interior, made it a popular choice for families and enthusiasts alike.
The Impala SS quickly became a cultural phenomenon, appearing in movies, TV shows, and music videos, solidifying its place as an American icon.
The 1966 Chevrolet Impala SS: A Timeless Icon
The 1966 Chevrolet Impala SS, a quintessential muscle car of the 1960s, embodies the spirit of American automotive excellence. It stands as a testament to the era’s design and engineering prowess, leaving an enduring mark on automotive history. The Impala SS’s powerful performance, sleek design, and undeniable presence have made it a coveted classic, cherished by enthusiasts and collectors alike.
The Impala SS’s Significance in Automotive History
The 1966 Chevrolet Impala SS played a pivotal role in shaping the muscle car era. Its powerful engine, striking design, and overall performance set a new standard for American automobiles. It became a symbol of American power and style, influencing countless other vehicles and contributing to the cultural phenomenon that swept the nation.
Design and Styling
The 1966 Chevrolet Impala SS was a striking example of American automotive design during the mid-1960s. It embodied the era’s love for bold lines, chrome accents, and powerful proportions. The Impala SS’s design was a significant departure from its predecessors, showcasing a more refined and sophisticated aesthetic.
Exterior Design
The 1966 Impala SS featured a distinctive exterior design that set it apart from other models. The front end was dominated by a large, chrome-plated grille with horizontal bars that extended into the headlights. The headlights were positioned on either side of the grille, with a prominent chrome trim surrounding them.
The 1966 Chevrolet Impala SS is a classic American muscle car known for its powerful engine and sleek design. Its design cues can be traced back to earlier Chevrolet models, such as the 1949 Chevrolet Fleetline , which also featured a distinctive, flowing body style.
While the Impala SS embodied the spirit of the 1960s, the Fleetline captured the elegance and optimism of post-war America, both contributing to the enduring legacy of Chevrolet’s iconic design language.
The hood featured a distinctive “power bulge” that added to the car’s muscular appearance. The side profile was characterized by its long, sweeping lines and prominent wheel arches. The rear end featured a distinctive wraparound taillight design with vertical chrome trim.
The taillights were positioned on either side of the rear bumper, which was adorned with chrome accents.
Color Options, 1966 Chevrolet Impala SS
The 1966 Impala SS was available in a wide range of colors, reflecting the vibrant palette of the era. Some of the popular color options included:
- Black
- White
- Red
- Blue
- Green
- Gold
- Silver
The Impala SS’s color options allowed buyers to personalize their cars to their taste and preferences.
Performance and Engine Options
The 1966 Chevrolet Impala SS, known for its stylish design, also offered a range of powerful engine options that made it a formidable performer on the road. The combination of these engines with the Impala’s sturdy build and spacious interior made it a popular choice for both everyday driving and spirited excursions.
Engine Options
The 1966 Impala SS was available with a variety of engine options, catering to different performance needs and preferences.
- 283 cu in (4.6 L) Turbo-Fire V8:This was the standard engine, offering a respectable 195 hp (145 kW) and 280 lbâ‹…ft (380 Nâ‹…m) of torque. It provided a good balance of power and fuel efficiency for everyday driving.
- 327 cu in (5.4 L) Turbo-Fire V8:This engine was available in two versions:
- 275 hp (205 kW) and 325 lbâ‹…ft (441 Nâ‹…m) of torque: This version provided a noticeable increase in power over the standard 283 cu in engine.
- 350 hp (261 kW) and 360 lbâ‹…ft (488 Nâ‹…m) of torque: This was the more powerful version of the 327 cu in engine, offering a significant performance boost.
- 396 cu in (6.5 L) Turbo-Jet V8:This was the top-of-the-line engine for the Impala SS, offering a thrilling 325 hp (242 kW) and 410 lbâ‹…ft (556 Nâ‹…m) of torque. This engine was capable of propelling the Impala SS from 0 to 60 mph in under 8 seconds, making it a true performance machine.
The 1966 Chevrolet Impala SS, with its iconic styling and powerful engine, represented the epitome of American muscle car culture. While the Impala SS reigned supreme on the asphalt, Chevrolet also offered a rugged alternative in the form of the 1980 Chevrolet Truck , a workhorse designed for hauling and off-road adventures.
Both vehicles, in their own right, captured the spirit of American automotive innovation and continue to hold a special place in the hearts of car enthusiasts today.
Transmission Options
The 1966 Impala SS was offered with a choice of two transmissions:
- Powerglide two-speed automatic transmission:This was the standard transmission, providing smooth and effortless shifting for everyday driving.
- Turbo-Hydramatic three-speed automatic transmission:This transmission offered a more responsive and sporty driving experience, with quicker shifts and better acceleration. It was a popular choice for drivers who wanted to make the most of the Impala SS’s performance potential.
Performance Specifications
The 1966 Impala SS, particularly with the 396 cu in engine, was a powerful car for its time. Its performance specifications are a testament to its capabilities:
- 0-60 mph:Around 7-8 seconds with the 396 cu in engine.
- Top speed:Approximately 115 mph (185 km/h) with the 396 cu in engine.
- Quarter-mile time:Approximately 15-16 seconds with the 396 cu in engine.
Interior Features
The interior of the 1966 Chevrolet Impala SS was a testament to the era’s love for spaciousness, comfort, and luxury. It was a place where drivers and passengers alike could enjoy the open road in style and comfort.
Interior Design and Layout
The 1966 Impala SS featured a spacious interior with a distinct layout. The dashboard was a prominent feature, showcasing a large, centrally placed instrument cluster. The steering wheel, typically a three-spoke design, was positioned in front of the driver, providing a commanding view of the road.
The interior layout was designed for comfort and convenience, with ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. The spacious cabin was a hallmark of the Impala, offering a comfortable and luxurious experience.
Interior Features
The interior of the 1966 Impala SS was adorned with a variety of features that enhanced comfort and convenience.
- Upholstery:The Impala SS was available with a range of upholstery options, including luxurious vinyl, plush cloth, and even leather. The choice of upholstery was often tied to the trim level and the buyer’s preferences.
- Dashboard:The dashboard was a key element of the interior, featuring a large, centrally placed instrument cluster that housed the speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, and other vital gauges. The dashboard was often adorned with woodgrain accents, adding a touch of elegance to the cabin.
- Seating:The Impala SS offered a variety of seating configurations, including bench seats and bucket seats. The front seats were designed for comfort and support, often featuring adjustable headrests and armrests. The rear seats were spacious enough to comfortably accommodate three passengers.
- Comfort and Convenience Features:The 1966 Impala SS was equipped with a number of comfort and convenience features, depending on the trim level and options selected. These could include power steering, power brakes, air conditioning, an AM radio, and even a rear window defroster.
Notable Features and Options
The 1966 Chevrolet Impala SS offered a range of features and options that catered to both comfort and performance, allowing buyers to customize their vehicles to suit their preferences. These options included power accessories, optional packages, and various accessories, adding to the car’s allure and versatility.
Power Steering, Power Brakes, and Air Conditioning
The 1966 Impala SS offered power steering, power brakes, and air conditioning as optional features. Power steering made maneuvering the large car easier, especially in tight spaces and at low speeds. Power brakes improved stopping performance, providing a more responsive and confident braking experience.
Air conditioning, a luxury for its time, provided welcome relief from the heat, making long drives more comfortable.
Optional Packages and Accessories
The 1966 Impala SS offered several optional packages and accessories that enhanced its appeal.
- The “Super Sport” packageincluded a distinctive blacked-out grille, special badging, and a unique interior trim, further enhancing the car’s sporty appearance.
- The “Custom Sport Coupe” packageincluded a vinyl roof, special wheel covers, and a unique interior trim, adding a touch of elegance to the car’s design.
- Other optional accessoriesincluded a tilt steering wheel, an AM/FM radio, and a rear window defroster, offering convenience and comfort features for the driver and passengers.
The availability of these features and options allowed buyers to personalize their Impala SS, making it a truly unique and desirable vehicle.
Production and Sales: 1966 Chevrolet Impala SS
The 1966 Chevrolet Impala SS was a highly successful model, reflecting the popularity of the Impala nameplate and the growing demand for performance cars in the mid-1960s. Its production and sales figures demonstrate its significant impact on the automotive market.The 1966 Impala SS was produced in substantial numbers, reflecting its popularity among consumers.
The model’s success can be attributed to several factors, including its stylish design, powerful engine options, and the enduring appeal of the Impala nameplate.
Production Numbers
The production numbers for the 1966 Impala SS reflect its popularity among consumers. Chevrolet produced a significant number of these cars, demonstrating the model’s appeal and its contribution to the overall success of the Impala line.
Chevrolet produced a total of 433,285 Impalas in 1966, with the SS trim accounting for a significant portion of that number.
The 1966 Chevrolet Impala SS, a classic muscle car, represented a peak in American automotive design. While the Impala SS was known for its powerful engine and sleek lines, Chevrolet continued to innovate in the pickup truck segment with the introduction of the 1992 Chevrolet Silverado.
This new truck brought a more modern design and advanced features to the market, demonstrating Chevrolet’s commitment to both performance and utility. The Impala SS, however, remained a symbol of a bygone era, a time when horsepower and style reigned supreme on American roads.
Sales Figures and Market Reception
The 1966 Impala SS was a commercial success, selling well and contributing to the overall popularity of the Impala line. The model’s strong sales figures are a testament to its appeal to consumers seeking a stylish and powerful car.
The 1966 Impala SS was a popular choice for consumers seeking a combination of style, performance, and affordability.
Factors Contributing to Success
The success of the 1966 Impala SS can be attributed to several factors, including its stylish design, powerful engine options, and the enduring appeal of the Impala nameplate.
- Stylish Design:The 1966 Impala SS featured a distinctive and appealing design that was popular with consumers. The model’s sleek lines, prominent grille, and sporty accents contributed to its overall appeal.
- Powerful Engine Options:The 1966 Impala SS offered a range of powerful engine options, catering to the performance-oriented consumer. The availability of powerful V8 engines, including the 396 cubic inch engine, enhanced the model’s desirability.
- Enduring Appeal of the Impala Nameplate:The Impala nameplate had already established itself as a popular and respected model in the automotive market. The 1966 Impala SS built upon this legacy, attracting consumers who valued the Impala’s reputation for quality and style.
Legacy and Impact
The 1966 Chevrolet Impala SS, with its sleek design, powerful engines, and luxurious interior, left an indelible mark on automotive culture. It became more than just a car; it embodied the spirit of the era, its influence resonating through popular media, inspiring subsequent models, and leaving a lasting impact on the automotive industry.
Cultural Impact and Popular Media
The 1966 Impala SS became a symbol of the American dream, appearing in numerous films, television shows, and music videos. Its iconic status was further cemented by its association with iconic figures of the time, including Elvis Presley and James Dean.
- In the 1967 film “The Graduate,” Dustin Hoffman’s character drives a 1966 Impala SS, showcasing its appeal as a symbol of youthful rebellion and freedom.
- The Impala SS also featured prominently in the popular TV series “The Dukes of Hazzard,” with the General Lee, a modified 1969 Dodge Charger, being inspired by the Impala’s design and performance.
- The car’s association with Elvis Presley further solidified its status as a cultural icon. He owned several Impalas, including a 1966 model, and the car often appeared in his music videos and concert performances.
Influence on Subsequent Chevrolet Models
The 1966 Impala SS’s success paved the way for future generations of Chevrolet models. Its design cues, performance features, and luxurious amenities influenced subsequent Impalas and other Chevrolet models, establishing a legacy of style and performance that continues to this day.
- The Impala’s distinctive styling, characterized by its long hood, sweeping lines, and prominent grille, inspired the design of subsequent generations of the model, particularly the 1967 and 1968 Impalas.
- The Impala SS’s powerful engine options, including the 396 cubic inch V8, set the standard for performance in subsequent Impala models, leading to the development of even more powerful engines in later generations.
- The Impala SS’s luxurious interior, with its plush upholstery, woodgrain accents, and advanced features, influenced the interior design of subsequent Chevrolet models, setting a benchmark for comfort and sophistication.
Last Recap
The 1966 Chevrolet Impala SS remains a timeless classic, its legacy echoing through generations. Its influence on automotive design and culture is undeniable, inspiring countless car enthusiasts and leaving a lasting impression on the American automotive landscape. Whether cruising down a highway or parked in a garage, the 1966 Impala SS continues to turn heads and capture imaginations, a testament to its enduring appeal and timeless design.
