The 68 ss impala represents the pinnacle of American muscle car engineering from the golden era of automotive design. This specific model year captured the fierce competition between Detroit's manufacturers and delivered a driving experience that remains legendary among enthusiasts today. Understanding the nuances of the 1968 Impala SS requires looking at the performance options, design language, and cultural context that defined the period.
Performance Specifications and Engine Options
Under the hood, the 1968 Impala SS offered a range of potent powerplants to suit different driver preferences. The base big-block option was the 396 cubic-inch V8, producing 325 horsepower and delivering strong mid-range torque for everyday driving and spirited weekends. For those seeking more power, the 427 cubic-inch V8 was available, generating an impressive 425 horsepower in its L72 configuration, making it one of the most powerful options available in any GM vehicle that year.
Transmission choices were equally impressive, with a three-speed manual being standard and a four-speed manual or the new three-speed Turbo-Hydramatic automatic available. The heavy-duty suspension and larger brakes were included with the SS package, ensuring that the power delivered to the pavement could be managed safely. This combination of power and control made the 68 ss impala a formidable presence on both the street and the quarter-mile strip.
Distinctive Styling and Design Elements Visually, the 1968 Impala SS was unmistakable, featuring a bold front grille with a central medallion and stacked headlights that gave it a wide, aggressive stance. The rear was dominated by wide chrome taillights and a subtle rear spoiler that hinted at the performance lurking beneath the sheet metal. Side spears and a more pronounced front bumper completed the aggressive look that set the SS apart from its lesser-equipped siblings. Inside, the cabin was trimmed with upgraded materials, including the iconic Strato bucket seats offered in vinyl or optional cloth. The three-spoke steering wheel, marked with the SS emblem, provided excellent control during aggressive cornering. The dashboard layout was driver-focused, placing essential gauges and controls within easy reach of the seated driver. Handling and Driving Dynamics
Visually, the 1968 Impala SS was unmistakable, featuring a bold front grille with a central medallion and stacked headlights that gave it a wide, aggressive stance. The rear was dominated by wide chrome taillights and a subtle rear spoiler that hinted at the performance lurking beneath the sheet metal. Side spears and a more pronounced front bumper completed the aggressive look that set the SS apart from its lesser-equipped siblings.
Inside, the cabin was trimmed with upgraded materials, including the iconic Strato bucket seats offered in vinyl or optional cloth. The three-spoke steering wheel, marked with the SS emblem, provided excellent control during aggressive cornering. The dashboard layout was driver-focused, placing essential gauges and controls within easy reach of the seated driver.
The 68 ss impala was engineered to handle the power it produced, featuring a heavy-duty suspension system that included front coil springs and a rear three-link live axle. This setup provided a firm yet controlled ride, minimizing body roll during hard cornering and maintaining traction under hard acceleration. The power steering, while heavy by modern standards, gave precise feedback that allowed for confident maneuvering at any speed.
Braking performance was equally serious, with 11-inch front discs becoming standard equipment on the SS package, a significant upgrade over the drums found on base models. This combination of power and sophisticated chassis components meant that the Impala SS could navigate winding roads with the composure of a European sports car, albeit with a distinctly American character.
Cultural Impact and Collector Value
Today, the 1968 Impala SS is celebrated as a classic muscle car that embodies the spirit of an era when horsepower ratings were climbing and design language was unapologetic. Its presence in films, television shows, and music has cemented its status as an icon of automotive culture. Owning a well-preserved example connects enthusiasts directly to the history of American automotive excellence.
Collector interest remains strong, with original numbers matching examples commanding significant premiums at auction. The combination of performance, style, and historical significance ensures that the 68 ss impala continues to be a desirable vehicle for both drivers and investors alike. Proper restoration or careful preservation can maintain the value of these legendary machines for future generations.
