Let's dive into the world of a true classic: the 1968 Chevy Impala 2-Door Fastback. This car isn't just a vehicle; it's a symbol of an era, a testament to iconic American design, and a rolling piece of history. For car enthusiasts and collectors, the '68 Impala holds a special place, and for good reason. The sleek lines, the powerful engine options, and the unmistakable presence make it a standout in automotive history.

The Allure of the 1968 Chevy Impala

The 1968 Chevy Impala is more than just a car; it's a cultural icon. Its design reflects the late 1960s perfectly, capturing the spirit of innovation and style that defined the era. The fastback design, in particular, gives it a sleek, aerodynamic profile that sets it apart from its contemporaries.

Why is it so special, though? Well, several factors contribute to its enduring appeal. First, the Impala was Chevy's flagship model, known for its reliability, comfort, and performance. In 1968, the Impala received a significant redesign, featuring smoother body lines, a more aggressive stance, and a host of new features. The fastback version, with its sloping roofline extending to the rear deck, was especially eye-catching.

Under the hood, the '68 Impala offered a range of engine options, from the efficient inline-six to the powerful big-block V8s. This versatility made it appealing to a wide range of buyers, from those seeking a practical family car to those craving high-performance thrills. The interior was equally impressive, with comfortable seating, stylish trim, and available features like air conditioning, power windows, and a premium sound system.

For collectors, the 1968 Impala 2-Door Fastback is particularly desirable. Its relatively low production numbers compared to other Impala models make it rarer and more valuable. Restored examples in excellent condition can fetch significant prices at auctions and classic car shows. Owning a '68 Impala isn't just about having a cool car; it's about preserving a piece of automotive history and sharing it with future generations.

Design and Styling: A Masterpiece of the Era

The design and styling of the 1968 Chevy Impala 2-Door Fastback are key to its enduring appeal. The '68 Impala was part of the fourth generation of this iconic model, and it brought with it a host of design changes that set it apart from previous years. The most noticeable feature was the streamlined body, with its flowing lines and integrated bumpers. The fastback roofline, which sloped gracefully from the roof to the rear deck, gave the car a sporty and elegant appearance. This design wasn't just about aesthetics; it also improved aerodynamics, contributing to better fuel efficiency and handling.

The front of the car featured a bold, horizontal grille with integrated headlights, giving it a wide and imposing stance. The rear end was equally striking, with large, rectangular taillights that wrapped around the corners of the car. Chrome trim was used judiciously throughout the exterior, adding a touch of elegance and highlighting the car's lines. The overall effect was a vehicle that looked both modern and sophisticated, a perfect reflection of the late 1960s design sensibilities.

Inside, the '68 Impala was designed for comfort and convenience. The spacious cabin offered ample room for passengers, and the seats were upholstered in high-quality materials. The dashboard was clean and functional, with easy-to-read gauges and controls. Available features included air conditioning, power windows, power steering, and a variety of audio systems. The attention to detail in the interior design made the Impala a pleasant place to be, whether you were cruising down the highway or stuck in city traffic.

The color options available for the 1968 Impala were another important aspect of its styling. Chevy offered a wide range of exterior colors, from conservative hues like white and black to more vibrant shades like red, blue, and green. Interior colors were equally diverse, with options to match or complement the exterior. This allowed buyers to customize their Impala to their personal tastes, making each car unique. The combination of stylish design, comfortable interior, and customizable options made the 1968 Chevy Impala a standout in its class.

Engine and Performance: Power Under the Hood

When it comes to the 1968 Chevy Impala 2-Door Fastback, the engine and performance are where this car truly shines. The '68 Impala offered a range of engine options to suit different driving needs and preferences. From the economical inline-six to the thunderous big-block V8s, there was an engine for everyone.

The base engine was a 250 cubic inch inline-six, which provided decent fuel economy and adequate power for everyday driving. However, most buyers opted for one of the V8 options, which offered significantly more performance. The V8 lineup included a 307 cubic inch small-block, a 327 cubic inch small-block, and several versions of the legendary 396 and 427 cubic inch big-block engines.

The 327 cubic inch V8 was a popular choice, offering a good balance of power and efficiency. It produced around 275 horsepower, which was enough to provide brisk acceleration and a satisfying driving experience. For those seeking more thrills, the 396 and 427 cubic inch big-block engines were the way to go. These engines cranked out upwards of 325 to 425 horsepower, transforming the Impala into a true muscle car.

The transmission options for the '68 Impala included a three-speed manual, a four-speed manual, and a two-speed Powerglide automatic. The Powerglide was a popular choice for its smooth and effortless shifting, while the manual transmissions offered more control and engagement for performance enthusiasts. The suspension system consisted of coil springs at all four corners, providing a comfortable ride and decent handling. Power steering and power brakes were available as options, making the Impala easier to drive and control.

The performance of the 1968 Impala varied depending on the engine and transmission combination. A well-equipped Impala with a big-block V8 could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in under 7 seconds, making it a formidable performer on the street or at the drag strip. Even with the smaller V8 engines, the Impala was still a capable and enjoyable car to drive. The combination of powerful engines, smooth transmissions, and comfortable suspension made the '68 Impala a winner in terms of performance and driving experience.

Collectibility and Restoration: Preserving a Classic

The 1968 Chevy Impala 2-Door Fastback holds a special place in the hearts of collectors and restorers. Its iconic design, rich history, and relative rarity make it a highly sought-after classic car. For those passionate about preserving automotive history, the '68 Impala offers a rewarding and challenging restoration project.

Collectibility: The '68 Impala 2-Door Fastback is considered more collectible than other Impala models due to its unique styling and lower production numbers. Cars in excellent original condition or those that have been professionally restored can fetch significant prices at auctions and classic car shows. Factors that influence the value of a '68 Impala include its engine, transmission, color combination, and overall condition. Cars with rare or desirable options, such as a big-block engine, four-speed manual transmission, or factory air conditioning, are particularly valuable.

Restoration: Restoring a 1968 Chevy Impala 2-Door Fastback can be a labor of love. It involves sourcing original parts, repairing or replacing damaged components, and refinishing the body and interior to their original condition. The availability of parts for the '68 Impala is generally good, thanks to the car's popularity and the efforts of dedicated parts suppliers. However, some parts may be more difficult to find, particularly those specific to the fastback model.

The restoration process typically begins with a thorough assessment of the car's condition. This involves inspecting the body for rust, damage, and previous repairs. The engine and drivetrain are also inspected to determine their condition and what repairs or replacements are needed. The interior is carefully examined to assess the condition of the upholstery, carpets, and trim.

Once the assessment is complete, the restoration work can begin. This may involve stripping the body down to bare metal, repairing any rust or damage, and applying a fresh coat of paint. The engine and drivetrain are rebuilt or replaced as needed, and the interior is refurbished with new upholstery, carpets, and trim. The goal of the restoration is to bring the car back to its original condition, both aesthetically and mechanically.

For those considering restoring a 1968 Chevy Impala 2-Door Fastback, it's important to do your research and plan carefully. Joining a classic car club or connecting with other Impala enthusiasts can provide valuable advice and support. With patience, dedication, and attention to detail, restoring a '68 Impala can be a rewarding experience that preserves a piece of automotive history for future generations.

Conclusion

The 1968 Chevy Impala 2-Door Fastback is a true American classic. Its sleek design, powerful engine options, and comfortable interior make it a standout in automotive history. Whether you're a car enthusiast, a collector, or simply someone who appreciates timeless design, the '68 Impala has something to offer. Its enduring appeal is a testament to its quality, style, and the spirit of the era in which it was created. The '68 Impala 2-Door Fastback is more than just a car; it's a symbol of American ingenuity and a reminder of a time when cars were more than just transportation—they were works of art.