1959 Chevrolet Impala 348 'Tri-Power' Convertible (LHD)

For many, automotive styling reached its zenith in 1959 and the fin was king that year. Chevrolet's new models for 1959 boasted 'slimline' styling with wider, lower, more spacious bodies and the now famous spread-wing treatment in the tail. Available in models - the basic Biscayne, mid-range Bel Air and luxurious Impala - there was a bewildering choice of body styles and drivetrain options for the buyer to choose from. Most desirable of all was the Impala Convertible, a full-sized and glamorous machine capable of seating five in comfort. The basic V8 offered was the small-block 283-cid (with the option of Ram-Jet fuel injection) but for effortless performance there was a 348-cid Turbo-Thrust V8 with either a four-barrel or Tri-Power carburettor set-up making the job of transporting all that heft look easy. The Tri-Power arrangement saw the centre Rochester twin-barrel carburettor controlling driveability and economy while those at either end kicked in to give additional power when required and was a popular option since first appearing in 1957. A rare find in Australia, this 1959 Impala Convertible is a classic piece of Americana from the chrome age and a desirable collectors item.