Did you know that over 700,000 units of the 1967 Chevrolet Impala were sold, making it one of the best-selling full-size cars of its time? If you’re fascinated by the Impala’s sleek design and performance, you’ll want to investigate other cars that share similar qualities.
You might be surprised to find that some GM siblings, like the Olds 88, and even Ford’s Galaxie 500, boast impressive features that rival the Impala’s. Let’s take a closer look at these cars that share a similar DNA.
Quick Navigation
Key Takeaways
- The Olds 88 and Pontiac Catalina have similar design features to the ’67 Impala, but with distinct styling differences that set them apart.
- The Ford Galaxie 500 emerges as a competitor, boasting a high-performance variant with a 428 cubic-inch Cobra Jet V8 producing 335 horsepower.
- The Buick LeSabre offers more luxurious features and a more upscale interior, making it a suitable alternative for those seeking a premium ride.
- The Plymouth Sport Fury excels in handling, making it a great option for those prioritizing responsiveness and driving dynamics.
- The ’67 Impala’s GM siblings, such as the Buick LeSabre and Olds 88, offer similar design cues and performance capabilities, making them viable alternatives.
Market and Sales
Chevrolet dominated the market in 1967, selling a staggering 1,201,700 full-sized cars and capturing a whopping 54% market share of full-sized cars.
You’re likely familiar with the iconic Chevy Impala, a flagship model that contributed to this success.
As the top seller, Chevy led the “Low Priced Three” – which also included Ford and Plymouth – that accounted for 57% of the full-sized car segment volume.
Ford trailed behind with 30% and Plymouth made significant gains with 13%.
The Chevy’s full-size dominance paved the way for its continued success in the American automotive market.
Design and Features
You’ll notice that the 1967 full-sized sedans, including the Chevy Impala, feature curvier contours and more dramatic styling cues.
For example, the ’67 Impala boasts a more sloped roofline and pronounced “hips” than its ’65 predecessor.
You’ll also observe that Ford and Plymouth analogously refreshed their designs with more curved lines and subtle revisions to their signature styling elements.
Exterior Styling
Several iconic American cars boast exterior styling cues reminiscent of the 1967 Chevy Impala.
You’ll notice similarities in cars like the Bel Air, which shares the Impala’s sleek, curved lines and chrome accents.
Take a closer look:
- Dual headlights and a horizontal grille create a striking front fascia
- Chrome trim adorns the sides, adding a touch of luxury
- A swooping roofline and curved trunk lid evoke classic American styling
- Fender skirts and chrome wheels complete the retro look
- A bold, two-tone paint scheme makes a statement on the road
Full-Sized Sedan Features
When shopping for a full-sized sedan, design and features are key considerations. You want a car that’s not only stylish but also offers the latest amenities. The Impala SS, for instance, comes with power windows, a feature that’s both desirable and convenient. Other features to look for include power bench seats, disc brakes, and an original factory track player, which adds to the car’s value.
Feature | Description |
---|---|
Power Windows | Convenient and desirable feature |
Power Bench Seat | Adds comfort and style |
Disc Brakes | Necessary feature for safety |
Performance and Handling
When evaluating cars similar to the 67 Chevy Impala, you’ll want to weigh handling dynamics that balance ride comfort with responsiveness, as well as powertrains that provide enough low-end torque for comfortable cruising.
You’ll also want to pay attention to braking performance, as some models may compromise on stopping power to prioritize other aspects of the driving experience.
Handling Dynamics
In the domain of handling dynamics, you’ll find distinct approaches to performance and handling among the 1967 full-sized cars.
While the Plymouth Sport Fury excels in handling, the Chevy Impala SS strikes a balance between handling and ride comfort.
- The Plymouth Sport Fury outperforms the Ford and Chevrolet in handling.
- The Chevrolet Impala SS is regarded as a thoroughly competent handler with the best braking performance.
- The Ford prioritizes ride comfort and isolation over handling responsiveness.
- The Plymouth’s brakes are underwhelming, likely due to previous use.
- The Impala SS is a top choice among full-sized cars for its handling dynamics.
Power and Braking
You’ll find notable differences in power and braking performance among the 1967 full-sized cars.
The 1967 Impala’s smallest V8 with a 4-barrel carburetor and dual exhaust strikes a balance between power and cruising capability.
Its braking performance is regarded as the best, with discs being a necessary feature for ideal stopping power.
In contrast, the Plymouth Sport Fury’s brakes are subpar, while Ford’s focus on ride comfort compromises responsiveness.
If you’re looking for a Chevy-like experience, consider the speed automatic transmission and prioritize braking performance when making your decision.
Car Brands and Collectors
The iconic ’67 Impala’s blend of style, power, and affordability has made it a prized catch for many car enthusiasts and collectors.
You may have seen these beauties on display at a car show, drawing crowds and sparking conversations.
As a collector, you might be interested in the following:
- Chevy’s SS models, known for their high-performance capabilities and sleek design
- The rarity of certain Impala models, making them a valuable addition to any collection
- The importance of original parts and documentation in determining a car’s value
- The role of professional appraisers in evaluating a car’s condition and worth
- The exclusive clubs and organizations dedicated to preserving the legacy of the ’67 Impala
Reader Comments and Forums
Among the online forums and discussion boards, enthusiasts gather to share their experiences and insights about cars similar to the ’67 Chevy Impala.
You’ll find readers raving about the Plymouth Sport Fury‘s strong performance and the Ford Galaxie 500‘s smooth ride.
They’ll share specs, like the ’67 Impala’s 4-barrel and dual exhaust, and opinions on which models are the best.
Chevy Impala SS fans a platform to discuss their favorite features and Ford enthusiasts can exchange info on their favorite models.
These forums provide valuable resources for those seeking info on cars similar to the ’67 Chevy Impala.
GM Siblings
When shopping for a car similar to the ’67 Chevy Impala, it’s natural to ponder its General Motors (GM) siblings.
These cars share similar design cues, features, and mechanical components.
- Olds 88 was a GM sibling with similar design features.
- Pontiac Catalina shared a similar platform but had distinct styling differences.
- Buick LeSabre offered more luxurious features and a more upscale interior.
The ’67 Impala’s design and features were closely related to those of its GM siblings, including the Olds 88 and Pontiac Catalina.
GM siblings, such as Olds 88 and Pontiac Catalina, were badge-engineered variants of the Impala with similar mechanical components and features.
Ford Competitors
You’ll find the Ford Galaxie 500 to be a notable competitor to the ’67 Chevy Impala, with its focus on ride comfort and isolation.
This high-end model featured a range of engines, including a 390 cubic-inch big-block V8, and was known for its smooth ride and great roar.
You’ll appreciate its Galaxy ride quality, a result of Ford’s emphasis on comfort over ultimate responsiveness.
Ford Galaxie 500
The Ford Galaxie 500 emerges as a formidable competitor to the 1967 Chevy Impala, boasting a high-performance variant that sets it apart from its counterparts.
You’ll notice key differences in performance, design, and features.
- A 428 cubic-inch Cobra Jet V8 engine, producing 335 horsepower, comparable to the Impala’s 396 cubic-inch V8 engine
- A unique console-mounted shifter, bucket seats, and distinctive dashboard design, differing from the Impala’s more conservative interior styling
- A fastback roofline, chrome accents, and aggressive stance, distinguishing it from the Impala’s formal, angular language
- Only approximately 12,000 units sold in 1967, compared to the Impala’s 1,201,700 units sold
- A high-performance variant that targets the Impala’s market share
Galaxy Ride Quality
Ride quality is a critical aspect of the driving experience, and Ford’s competitors in the Galaxy lineup don’t disappoint.
You’ll find that the Galaxy’s coil spring suspension and stabilizer bars provide a smooth ride, rivaling the ’67 Chevy Impala.
The Galaxy’s rear suspension is also designed to reduce road noise and vibrations, making it an attractive option for those seeking a comfortable ride.
With its robust engine and advanced suspension system, you’ll feel confident cruising down the highway, enjoying a ride quality that’s hard to match.
Brand Hierarchy
Back in the day, Plymouth, Chevy, and Ford brands occupied the same rung in the brand hierarchy, each vying for market share.
You might be surprised to learn where other brands stood.
- Buick, Mercury, and Chrysler were a notch higher in the brand hierarchy.
- Cadillac and Lincoln stood at the pinnacle.
- Imperial might be on the line or at the top rung.
The hierarchy has changed over the years, with brands like Plymouth, Olds, and Pontiac no longer existing.
Today, the brand hierarchy has shifted, with new players and changed market dynamics.
Key Points
You’re now examining the key features of the 1967 Impala and similar full-size sedans.
These cars boasted impressive specs, with the Impala itself offering a range of features that contributed to its popularity.
1967 Impala Features
The 1967 Chevrolet Impala’s sleek design is accentuated by seven key features that set it apart from its predecessors and competitors.
You’ll notice a curvier contour, more pronounced “hips”, and a more dramatically sloped roofline with a more exaggerated flair compared to its 1965 styling.
- Power windows and power bench seat are desirable features in the 1967 Impala
- An original factory track player adds value to the car, and disc brakes are a necessary feature
- The curvature in the mounting of the vertical headlights is a styling gesture that adds to the car’s aesthetic appeal
- A small V8 with a 4-barrel and dual exhaust is preferred, along with a manual transmission with the widest ratio and tallest gears
Full Size Sedans
Full-size sedans dominated the market in 1967, with over 57% of the segment volume attributed to the “Low Priced Three” – Ford, Plymouth, and Chevrolet.
You’ll find that Chevy led the pack, selling 1,201,700 full-sized cars, followed by Ford and Pontiac.
Meanwhile, Plymouth’s styling was freshened up with smoother flanks, revised rooflines, and clean looks that highlighted size and substance.
As you examine these full-size sedans, you’ll notice that Chrysler’s presence is felt, even if it’s not part of the top three.
Full Size Chevy Overview
Classic Industries’ definition of full-size Chevy passenger cars kicks in from 1958, excluding the iconic Tri Five models.
You’re looking at a range of vehicles that includes two-door, four-door, and wagon variants, but not the Chevy II / Nova.
Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:
-
- Biscayne: Known for its base model features and affordability
- Delray: A step up from the Biscayne, with added trim levels
- Kingswood: A mid-range model with a focus on comfort and style
- Brookwood: A wagon variant with ample space for passengers and cargo
- Nomad: A high-end model with premium features and design elements
- Biscayne: Known for its base model features and affordability
Chevrolet Impala
Cars similar to the ’67 Chevy Impala boast distinctive styling cues, which you’ll find reflected in its top-tier trim levels and engine options.
As a full-size rear-wheel-drive passenger car, the Impala was offered from 1958 to 1985 and again from 1994-96. Its design changed dramatically each year, making it easy to distinguish the brand-new model from its predecessors.
Super Sport (SS) models are highly sought after, making them a prized possession among car collectors. The 1962, 1963, and 1964 Impalas are especially famous and desirable today, rivaling even the Chrysler brand.
Chevrolet Bel Air
Its sleek design and impressive features make the Chevrolet Bel Air a sought-after model, rivaling even the Impala in popularity.
As a mid-range trim level, the Bel Air was positioned between the base model Biscayne and the top-of-the-line Impala.
-
-
- The Bel Air name was first introduced in 1950 and continued through 1975
- During the 1955-57 Tri Five years, the Bel Air was the top-of-the-line trim
- The Bel Air’s design changed dramatically each year, making it easy to distinguish from its predecessors
- Its popularity has endured long after production ended, making it a desirable classic car
- Unlike Chrysler, the Bel Air maintained its mid-range status, making it an attractive option for Chevy enthusiasts
-
Chevrolet Caprice
You’ve ventured the mid-range Bel Air, now consider the luxurious Chevrolet Caprice, which debuted in 1965 as an upgraded four-door Impala. As an official model from 1966, it boasted top-tier features like Comfortron climate control and telescopic steering. The Caprice later gained notoriety as a patrol vehicle for police departments.
Feature | Description | Years | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
Debut | Upgraded four-door Impala | 1965 | ||
Official Model | Top-tier features | 1966 | ||
Notable Use | Patrol vehicle | Late 1960s-1990s | Production | 1966-1996 |
Full Size Chevy Models
The Chevrolet lineup offered a range of full-size models, each catering to different needs and budgets.
You’ll find options that fit your requirements, whether you prioritize affordability or luxury.
-
-
- The Delray was the least expensive Full Size Chevy model, replacing the entry-level 1957 150 series.
- The Biscayne was Chevrolet’s least expensive model in the Full-Size Chevy lineup, offering a more affordable option for buyers.
- The Brookwood was a mid-range wagon model, positioned between the entry-level Kingswood and the more luxurious Nomad.
- The Kingswood was Chevrolet’s mid-range station wagon, offering a balance of features and affordability for families.
- The Nomad was the top-of-the-line wagon model, featuring premium materials and amenities for a more luxurious driving experience.
-
Conclusion
You’ve delved into the 1967 Chevy Impala‘s siblings and competitors, from the Olds 88 to the Ford Galaxie 500. But here’s a surprising truth: the Impala’s design was originally intended for the Chevrolet Bel Air, but it ended up becoming the Impala’s signature look. This little-known fact reveals the intricate design process behind one of America’s most iconic cars.