For the 1962 Impala very few body style changes were made. The body style change that stood out the most was the ribbed roof line, giving a "convertible top" look to the hardtop coupes. This new "convertible top" look became extremely popular and contributes to the desirability of the Impala as a collectible. The overhang roofline of the '61 sedans was replaced with a more attractive wider "C" pillar with wraparound rear window. All of the Super Sport Impalas now featured front bucket seats and aluminum side trim with the new swirl pattern aluminum inserts. A large three piece trim panel ran full length of the deck lid. The major changes for '62 took place up front in the engine compartment! The popular 348 "W block" engine was dropped from production. A new small block 327ci engine took its place. The 409ci big block engine was now ruling the strip and street. The Beach Boys hit "She's so fine my 409" was also driving the popularity of this power plant! Due to reliability issues the Turboglide transmission was discontinued.
Engine Options | CI. Displacement | Horse Power |
High Thrift 6-Cylinder | 235.5 | 135 |
Super Turbo-Fire/Turbo-Fire V-8 | 283 | 170 |
Super Turbo-Thrust/ Turbo-Thrust V-8 | 327 | 250/300 |
Turbo Fire V-8 | 409 | 380/409 |
Transmission Options | ||
Powerglide - Overdrive - Synchro Mesh |
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