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Chevrolet Impala SS 409
The legendary SS or Super Sport package has its place in muscle car history as an important model that promoted performance to the public. This was one of the first high-performance automobiles that were relatively affordable and fast. Everything started when Chevrolet decided to transform the 409 truck engine to use for passenger cars. They found out the unit was powerful and could outrun all other cars on the road.
Just by mild modifications to the engine, it could produce up to 409 HP. And that was enough to propel the Impala from a standstill to 60 mph in six seconds flat. At the moment, that was Corvette territory. So, as a mid-year introduction, Chevrolet presented the SS package featuring bucket seats, a sports trim and other details. Also, it came with the 348 V8 engine with 350 HP. However, the most interesting option was the 409 V8 with up to 409 HP if you optioned for dual quad intake system.
Interestingly, the 409 option was available for all Chevrolet full-size models in 1961. So, it was possible to install this engine into plain-looking sedans and wagons. But those cars have yet to surface. Today, as expected, the 1961 Impala SS 409 is one of the most valuable cars in Chevrolet muscle car history.