1958 Chevrolet Impala Coupe

Introduced for the 1958 model year, the Chevrolet Impala signaled a bold new direction in styling, luxury, and performance for the brand. Chevrolet had long been known for producing dependable, affordable automobiles for the American public, but the Impala elevated the marque into a more refined and aspirational category. Named after the graceful African antelope, the model was designed to convey both elegance and speed, qualities reflected in its sweeping lines and confident presence on the road.

Built on Chevrolet’s new “Safety-Girder” X-frame chassis for 1958, the Impala Coupe featured dramatic styling that perfectly captured the spirit of late-1950s American design. Its low roofline sculpted rear fenders, distinctive triple taillights, and tasteful chrome accents set it apart from other models in the Chevrolet range. Inside, the Impala offered a noticeably more upscale environment than its Bel Air counterparts, featuring patterned upholstery, bright trim, and a stylish dashboard layout. Buyers could also select from a range of powerful V-8 engines, adding to its sporty appeal.

The Impala quickly became a symbol of success and style in postwar America. Its combination of bold design, strong performance, and comfortable luxury made it a favorite among entertainers, musicians, and Hollywood personalities of the era. Seen parked outside nightclubs, film studios, and fashionable restaurants, the 1958 Impala Coupe represented the glamour and optimism of the late 1950s, firmly establishing itself as one of Chevrolet’s most celebrated and iconic automobiles.

An automobile that embraces that glamour and spotlight optimism is this fully restored 1958 Chevrolet Impala Coupe finished in the dazzling shade of Cay Coral. Stored for a number of years, this example was found abandoned at an Amarillo Texas body shop. Upon being discovered, it was then purchased by Bill Clement of Chevy Craft in Lubbock, Texas, who was best known as, “The Chevy Guy”. To ensure this Impala's legacy was kept alive, Bill Clement commenced a comprehensive restoration, with the interior being completed by Can Am Resto of Canada and the brightwork replated and polished by Plains Electroplating. Beautifully presented in its original color of Cay Coral with a white top, it features its original 283-cubic-inch 230-horsepower four-barrel carburetor V-8 engine that is paired with a Powerglide automatic transmission. During the restoration, tasteful updates were made, such as installing an exhaust by A\&B Muffler and a radiator by Wilkinson Radiator. The restoration is documented by photocopies.

Eventually this lovely Impala was purchased by Peggy Sue Gerron in 2010, for whom the hit 1957 Buddy Holly song “Peggy Sue” was written. A fitting owner for this Impala, Peggy had been involved with the restoration and helped see it through while it was at Chevy Craft. Accompanying the sale of this Impala is a previous title in Peggy Sue Gerron's name, rear fender skirts autographed by her, and photocopies of the restoration.

Owning this remarkable 1958 Chevrolet Impala Coupe offers more than simply possessing a beautifully restored example of one of Chevrolet’s most iconic designs, it provides a tangible connection to the person that helped inspire the legendary, and far too short story of Buddy Holly. Combining provenance and striking late-1950s styling, this Impala represents an opportunity to acquire a truly distinctive piece of automotive history with lasting appeal and appreciation.