In 1958 Chevrolet introduced its new full-size passenger cars redesigned from the ground up with a new frame and sheet metal. A new up-level sporty trim package was created for Bel Air coupes and convertibles along with a new name - Impala. The Impala began as the top option level on Chevrolet's Bel Air line. Chevrolet's 1958 lineup featured one-year-only styling that sported "curves where before there were lines." The Impala option added special trim deluxe interiors and resulted in the steepest price in the Chevrolet lineup. Performance was important from the beginning as the first Impala could be optioned with up to a 348 V8 putting out 315 bhp. The public's positive response lead to Chevrolet making the Impala a separate option for the next year. Chevrolet produced 125480 Bel Air Impala coupes and 55989 convertibles in model-year 1958. Engine options were a 235-cubic-inch six-cylinder a 283 V-8 or three new 348 V-8s; a 250hp Turbo-Thrust a 280hp with 3-2bbl or a 315hp Super Turbo-Thrust model with high-compression heads and solid lifters. Base price of a new Sport Coupe in 1958 ranged from $2586 to $2693; the convertibles ranged from $2724 to $2841. Weights were approximately 3458-3523 lbs. The Impala brand was born. To consumers Impala offered an up-level image that was still within an affordable price range. From the beginning the Impala nameplate carried with it images of fun youthfulness spontaneity and pride.
