1958-72 View  //  May 2008

50th Anniversary - 1958 Chevrolet

 

In November of 1980, the first issue of Late Great Chevys was published. Those were the days when everyone was asking, "What's a Late Great Chevy?" Twenty eight years later and we're looking at the 50th anniversary of the first Late Great Chevy. Being a 1958 Chevrolet has not always been easy. Following in the footsteps of the ever-popular 1955-1957 Chevys, the '58 was often overlooked as a collectible auto. Now, five decades after production, Chevy enthusiasts are chasing the elusive 1958 Impala!
Just what is it about the '58 that makes it so special? I feel that the fact that this car is truly a one-off design makes collectors want this Chevy. When it comes to shape, size, body chrome or interior design, there's nothing else like it. A fully decked-out 1958 Impala is a sight to see and enjoy. Nineteen fifty eight marked the first year for the Impala model and this new model was the luxury car for the brand.
Today's owner of a 1958 Chevrolet is a lucky person; everywhere he or she takes their '58, it's sure to cause a stir. It's also not commonplace to see a '58 Chevrolet because most of these great old Chevys are long gone. The jump, no, leap, in design changes from 1957 to 1958 were amazing. The '57 fin was replaced by the '58 gull-wing, then add the side dummy chrome plated air scoops, (pitchforks) roof scoop and gobs of chrome and you have the makings of a real show stopper.
The most amazing feature of the 1958 Chevrolet is its versatility; here's a Chevy that can look great as a fully restored car or can demand attention as a customized car.
At this year's Winter National Show, I saw two fine examples of this versatility:
Restored 1958 Impala
Owner: Dan Snell
Lakeland, FL

Custom 1958 Impala
Owner: Roger Williamson
Weeki Wachee, FL

All you have to do is look at these two great 1958 Chevys and enjoy. Each of these Impalas is sure to please. Maybe you’re the type of person who only likes original, or maybe custom Chevys turn you on; here are two of the best. Isn't it amazing how the same 1958 Impalas can take on two different looks yet be easily identified as 1958 Impalas?
We say "Happy Anniversary" to the 1958 Chevrolet, you're not late you're just great!