1958 Chevrolet

Text: By Bob Parrish

 

 

What a contrast and change from the 1957 Chevy, no fins, new engines, new design and even new model names advertised as “so low, so long, so supremely smart.”

 

In May of 1956 this new design had been completed and approved at GM and this all-new Chevrolet was ready to be produced and its legacy to begin. It was to be the legendary Harley Earle’s last design and was nicknamed his “Baby Cadillac.” Why not ---- It was the 50th anniversary of General Motors and was offered in Anniversary Gold.

 

Lets take a look at some of the changes – new names appeared Delray for 150 series, Biscayne for 210, traditional Bel Air and top of the line Impala, the first Big Block 348 cu. In. w engine, was available and could be enhanced with 3 carbs from the factory. New X frame and full coil springs presented a lower silhouette, quad headlights, 9” longer and 5” lower, 300 lbs heavier. Also available was “Level Air Ride,” later to be discontinued due to mechanical problems. There was a lot of chrome and stainless, much like all the other 1958 GM models. The interior of the Impala was Tri Tone, with sport steering wheel and a pull down armrest in the back seat to give it a sporty look. Posi-traction differentials were also offered for better traction control, something that is still around today. This one year only design is still popular among car enthusiasts today, as it was at the grand showing in October of 1957 at your dealer’s showroom.