Minneapolis Street Sighting: Chevrolet Impala

Chevrolet's Impala and Caprice have been--and continue to be--some of the most common classic nameplates on the road; they're enthusiast favorites no matter what the automotive circle. Donk riders, muscle car enthusiasts, and douches who just want a "badass car" all love them. They're about as American as a Ford Mustang when it comes to cliche American cars--and that's not a bad thing. Surviving since 1958, the Impala is the longest running Chevrolet nameplate for cars; it's been through tumultous times such as the gas-crunch of the 1970s, and it for the last 15 years, it has been a front-wheel-drive family sedan that does battle with the Honda Accord, the Volkswaen Passat, and the Toyota Camry among others. Before it became saddled with the honor of being a front-wheeler, the nameplate had a prestigious history as a rear wheel drive sedan, coupe, or convertible that sat at the top of the chain, as far as full-size Chevrolets go. By 1977, the big cars of yesteryear had given way to the smaller B-bodys, and by 1985, the Impala nameplate was gone again. The big car (well, relatively, compared to the much-smaller Malibu, and smaller-yet Cavalier) slowly phased out and was replaced with the identical Chevrolet Caprice. The car pictured here is a 1977-1979 example that is in far-from-impeccable shape, but I thought the mood depicted in these shots sums up how I feel about the weather right now.

 

I know this example is far from pristine; it's probably one of a select few from this generation I've ever bothered to shoot, though. To be honest, I am a fan of the "donk" body cars, and the '86-'90 Caprice instead of these. I dunno; these just look weird. Something about the ass-end doesn't quite sit well with me. Maybe that's why I chose this beater as my only blogged example? Honestly, I don't think that was intentional. I think this car has enough character that its interesting  at least.
I'm not sure what's up with the funk hood ornament, but other than that, this poor old Impala looks like a good candidate for a B-movie car chase through a small town in the desert--and maybe a car chase through downtown Minneapolis in the rain, too.
Ah, hell, it looks like it already has gone on a few car chase--or at least been hooned a few times. I'm curious as to what did the minor front end damage, and judging by the overall condition, it appears that the hit occurred when this smallpala was relatively new.