Gateway Classic Cars Houston Showroom is proud to present this 1965 Chevrolet Impala SS restomod. This fully re-engineered 1965 Impala SS blends classic style with modern performance. At the heart is a fresh CHEVY BBC 496ci (505hp) Stage 6.0 engine built on a Dart Big M block - an aftermarket block engineered for maximum durability and strength. Dart's Big M blocks feature precision machining, superior strength, and priority main oiling to ensure reliability and power. Inside the block, we've installed Wiseco forged pistons. Unlike cast pistons, Wiseco's high-strength forged aluminum pistons are lighter and stronger, allowing higher compression and revving without failure. In practice this means the Impala's engine can handle serious horsepower and abuse while remaining rock-solid.

The fuel system is modernized with an Edelbrock Pro-Flo electronic fuel injection kit, replacing the old carburetor. EFI ensures each cylinder gets the precise fuel metering it needs under all conditions, delivering instant throttle response and smoother power delivery. It provides crisp, solid shifts and a reliable connection between the big-block's power and the rear wheels. Complementing this is a Ram precision-machined billet steel flywheel. The heavy-duty Ram flywheel adds useful inertia for smooth launch and low-speed drivability. Paired with a high-performance twin-disc clutch kit from McLeod Racing, this drivetrain launches the Impala with confidence. The McLeod twin-clutch design doubles the friction surface area, allowing enormous grip without the extra weight of a single huge clutch. As Motor Trend notes, a McLeod twin-disc clutch delivers "mega grip without the extra weight" - it's about 10 pounds lighter than stock, yet it grips more firmly and requires less pedal effort. In short, this engine-and-transmission package lets you "get on it" with a light, positive clutch feel while the forged internals and billet components handle the abuse.

The chassis of this Impala has been completely reworked for modern handling. Up front and out back the suspension uses fully adjustable coil-over shock-and-spring assemblies. Unlike the old leaf springs and shocks, coil overs allow precise control of ride height and damping, so the car's body is flat and planted in corners. Coil-over systems are prized in performance builds because they are "fully tunable" for both spring preload and shock valving, delivering "better geometry" and a firmer, more controlled ride than stock setups. With the adjustable springs, you can lower the car for a lower center of gravity and stiffen it for aggressive street driving, yet still retain comfort on the highway. The suspension arms themselves have been upgraded to heavy-duty tubular control arms. These modern arms are made from high-strength steel tubing, making them lighter and stronger than the original stamped-steel A-arms. The tubular design also corrects the outdated geometry of the stock setup, allowing more negative camber and optimal caster angles. In fact, QA1 - a leading suspension manufacturer - explains that tubular control arms reduce unsprung weight and allow modern alignment settings (like extra negative camber gain) that vastly improve handling. In practice this means better turn-in grip and stability under load.

Inside, the Impala balances classic character with driver comfort. The bucket seats and door panels are trimmed in durable black cloth, accented by supple black leather in key areas for a touch of luxury. This combination was chosen for both its classic muscle-car appearance and its comfort. Modern conveniences abound: factory-style air conditioning keeps the cabin cool in summer, while a retro-styled AM/FM radio and premium sound system lets you enjoy music in cruise mode. Power steering, power brakes, and power door locks make everyday driving easy and comfortable. Even the tilt-adjustable steering wheel lets drivers of any size find the ideal position. Custom alloy wheels with modern wide radial tires add a distinctive look and grip, and a comfortable front bench and rear seat ensure the Impala is just as functional as it is powerful. In short, the interior feels like a well-equipped classic: vintage charm with all the modern usability features you expect in a high-end restomod.

The end result is an Impala SS that drives like a modern performance sedan but sounds and feels like old-school muscle. Throttle input is met with instant response from the EFI'd 505ci V8, and the exhaust bellow combines classic big-block roar with seamless idle and midrange due to modern tuning. The hydraulic McLeod twin-disc clutch, paired with the balanced Ram flywheel, allows the engine to rev freely off the stop but also gives smooth engagement when launching - you can feel the full torque of the motor without any hesitation or chattering. Shifts through the robust Tremec five-speed are positive and precise, thanks to a short-throw shifter and modern linkage.

What truly sets this Impala apart is how the upgraded engine and suspension work together. The stiffened chassis and coil-overs mean that when you floor it or dive into a corner, the body remains flat and predictable. The tires bite the pavement, and the steering is sharp and direct - far removed from the vague feel of the original. Combined with those massive Wilwood brakes, the car begs to be driven hard. Experienced drivers will appreciate that this classic no longer softly wallows through curves; instead it rewards aggressive inputs with true muscle-car thrills. Even at highway speeds, the car is stable and controlled, not only thanks to the suspension but also the 50-year newer tires and modern alignment.

In summary, this 1965 Impala SS resto-mod blends raw power with refinement. Each upgrade was chosen to make the car as drivable and reliable as possible. The result is a true high-performance classic: one that you can hop in for a leisurely Sunday cruise or take on a winding back road and wring out its legs. It evokes the visceral excitement of vintage muscle - the rumble, the quick throttle response - but it behaves like a modern sports car. It's a thrilling, instant classic that delivers modern handling, braking, and comfort without losing any of that legendary 1960s attitude. With powerful polished V8 under the hood, precise suspension, and thoughtful amenities inside, this Impala SS is ready to excite any enthusiast who loves a blend of nostalgia and capability.