The 1967 Chevrolet Impala is a classic car that has captured the hearts of many automotive enthusiasts. Known for its sleek design and powerful engine options, the '67 Impala remains a highly sought-after vehicle. One of the key performance metrics that car lovers often look for is the 0-60 mph time. Let's dive into what made this car special and explore its performance capabilities.

Overview of the 1967 Chevrolet Impala

The 1967 Chevrolet Impala holds a special place in automotive history, representing a blend of style, power, and comfort that defined an era. To truly appreciate the 0-60 mph time and overall performance of this iconic vehicle, it's essential to understand its design, engine options, and historical context. The Impala was first introduced in 1958 and quickly became one of Chevrolet's best-selling models. By 1967, it had evolved into a full-size car that offered a range of features to appeal to a broad audience.

Design and Styling

The 1967 Impala featured a distinctive design that set it apart from its contemporaries. Its long, sleek lines, combined with a wide stance, gave it a commanding presence on the road. The '67 model year saw several styling updates, including a new grille, revised taillights, and subtle changes to the body contours. These enhancements contributed to the car's overall appeal, making it a stylish choice for drivers who wanted to make a statement. The interior was just as impressive, with comfortable seating, a well-laid-out dashboard, and a range of available options, such as air conditioning and power windows.

Engine Options

One of the most appealing aspects of the 1967 Chevrolet Impala was the variety of engine options available. Chevrolet offered a range of engines to suit different driving needs and preferences. These included:

• Inline-Six: The base engine was a 250 cubic inch inline-six, which provided adequate power for everyday driving.
• Small-Block V8s: For those seeking more performance, several small-block V8 options were available, including the 327 cubic inch V8, which came in various horsepower ratings.
• Big-Block V8s: The true performance enthusiasts could opt for the big-block V8 engines, such as the 396 cubic inch and the mighty 427 cubic inch. These engines delivered impressive power and torque, transforming the Impala into a serious performance machine.

Historical Context

The 1967 Chevrolet Impala was released during a time of significant change in American society. The automotive industry was booming, and consumers had a wide range of choices when it came to buying a new car. The Impala stood out as a versatile option that could serve as a comfortable family car or a powerful performance vehicle, depending on the configuration. Its popularity reflected the diverse needs and desires of American drivers during this era. Furthermore, the '67 Impala has appeared in numerous films and television shows, cementing its status as a cultural icon. Its timeless design and association with the open road have made it a favorite among collectors and enthusiasts alike.

1967 Chevrolet Impala 0-60 Time

The 1967 Chevrolet Impala's 0-60 mph time varied significantly based on the engine and transmission configuration. As mentioned earlier, the Impala offered a range of engine options, from the base inline-six to the powerful big-block V8s. Each engine delivered different levels of performance, which directly impacted the car's acceleration. Let's take a closer look at the 0-60 times for some of the popular engine options:

Inline-Six Engine

The base inline-six engine, while reliable and economical, was not designed for blistering acceleration. The 250 cubic inch inline-six typically produced around 155 horsepower, which was sufficient for everyday driving but not particularly quick. The 1967 Impala equipped with this engine could achieve a 0-60 mph time in approximately 12-14 seconds. This made it a practical choice for those prioritizing fuel efficiency and affordability over outright performance. However, for drivers seeking more excitement, the V8 options were the way to go.

Small-Block V8 Engines

The small-block V8 engines offered a significant performance boost over the inline-six. The 327 cubic inch V8, for example, came in various horsepower ratings, ranging from around 210 to 275 horsepower. A 1967 Impala with the higher-output 327 V8 could accelerate from 0-60 mph in approximately 8-10 seconds. This was a noticeable improvement and made the Impala a much more enjoyable car to drive. The small-block V8s provided a good balance of power and fuel economy, making them a popular choice among buyers.

Big-Block V8 Engines

For those who wanted the ultimate in performance, the big-block V8 engines were the top choice. The 396 cubic inch and 427 cubic inch V8s delivered impressive power and torque, transforming the 1967 Impala into a true muscle car. The 427 V8, in particular, could produce upwards of 425 horsepower, making it one of the most powerful engines available at the time. A '67 Impala equipped with the 427 V8 could achieve a 0-60 mph time in approximately 6-7 seconds. This level of performance was comparable to many dedicated sports cars of the era, making the Impala a formidable contender on the street and the drag strip.

Factors Affecting 0-60 Time

Several factors could affect the 1967 Chevrolet Impala's 0-60 mph time. These included:

• Engine Condition: The condition of the engine played a crucial role in its performance. A well-maintained engine would deliver more power and better acceleration than one that was worn or in need of repair.
• Transmission Type: The type of transmission also had an impact on 0-60 times. Manual transmissions generally allowed for quicker acceleration compared to automatic transmissions, as they provided more direct control over gear changes.
• Rear Axle Ratio: The rear axle ratio affected the car's acceleration and top speed. A lower (higher numerically) gear ratio would provide quicker acceleration, while a higher (lower numerically) gear ratio would result in better fuel economy and a higher top speed.
• Tire Condition: The condition of the tires was also important. Worn tires with poor traction would result in slower acceleration times.
• Vehicle Weight: The weight of the vehicle could also affect its performance. A lighter Impala would generally accelerate faster than a heavier one.

Performance Specifications

To provide a clearer picture of the 1967 Chevrolet Impala's performance, here's a table summarizing the 0-60 mph times and horsepower figures for different engine options:

These figures are approximate and can vary depending on the specific configuration and condition of the vehicle. However, they provide a general idea of the performance capabilities of the 1967 Chevrolet Impala with different engine options.

Legacy and Collectibility

The 1967 Chevrolet Impala has left an indelible mark on automotive history and remains a highly collectible car today. Its combination of style, performance, and affordability made it a popular choice when it was new, and its timeless design has helped it maintain its appeal over the years. The '67 Impala is particularly popular among collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate classic American cars. Restored examples in excellent condition can fetch significant prices at auctions and classic car shows. The value of a '67 Impala depends on several factors, including:

• Engine Option: Impalas equipped with the big-block V8 engines, especially the 427, are generally more valuable than those with the inline-six or small-block V8s.
• Condition: The condition of the car is a major factor in its value. Well-maintained and restored examples are worth more than those in poor condition.
• Originality: Original, unrestored Impalas are often highly prized by collectors, as they offer a glimpse into the car's history and heritage.
• Rarity: Certain rare options and configurations can also increase the value of a '67 Impala. For example, cars with specific factory options or limited-production colors may be worth more than more common examples.

Cultural Impact

Beyond its collectibility, the 1967 Chevrolet Impala has also had a significant cultural impact. It has appeared in numerous films, television shows, and music videos, further cementing its status as an icon of American automotive culture. One of the most notable appearances is in the television series "Supernatural," where a black '67 Impala serves as the main characters' primary mode of transportation. This has helped introduce the car to a new generation of enthusiasts and has contributed to its continued popularity.

Conclusion

The 1967 Chevrolet Impala is a true classic that represents a significant chapter in automotive history. Its sleek design, powerful engine options, and cultural impact have made it a beloved car among enthusiasts and collectors alike. The 0-60 mph time of a '67 Impala varied depending on the engine and transmission configuration, with the big-block V8s offering the most impressive performance. Whether you're a classic car enthusiast, a collector, or simply someone who appreciates automotive history, the 1967 Chevrolet Impala is a car that deserves your attention.