1959 Impala 2-door hardtop

Joe LohrCompleted Projects

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1959 Impala 2-door hardtop

This 1959 Impala is a performance cruiser. With a 520hp LS3, T56 Magnum 6-speed transmission, and a Schwartz Performance G-Machine Chassis, it runs as good as it looks!

Frame & Suspension

  • Schwartz Performance G-Machine full frame
  • Power steering rack
  • Ridetech single-adjustable coilovers
  • Racing style splined sway bars
  • Baer Pro-Plus 14" rotors, red 6P 6-piston calipers front & rear

Engine

  • GM LS3, modified to 520hp by Schwartz Performance
  • Custom grind camshaft, ARP rod bolts & upgraded dual valve springs
  • GM wiring harness & ECU
  • Custom billet serpentine drive
  • Billet Specialties 2-piece valve covers

Drivetrain

  • Tremec T56 Magnum 6-speed
  • GM LS7 clutch kit
  • Custom steel driveshaft
  • Moser 9” full floater, 31 spline axles
  • 9” third member with TrueTrac differential, 3.70 gears

Wheels & Tires

  • Billet Specialties "Turbine" - fully polished
  • 19x8" front, wrapped in 245/40/19 Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires
  • 20x10" rear, wrapped in 295/35/20 Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires

Paint & Body

  • Black! - all bodywork & sheet metal by Ken's Klassics, Muscoda, WI

Other Features

  • Custom aluminum radiator w/electric fan
  • Vintage Air Gen IV Magnum a/c system
  • Dakota Digital VHX gauges
  • Optima YellowTop battery
  • Custom red / leather interior by Steve Holcomb
 

Disassembly gallery

Chassis & fitting gallery

Assembly before paint gallery

Final assembly gallery

Completed gallery