Bel Air vs Impala — Which Classic Full-Size Chevrolet?

Choose the Bel Air for the 1955 to 1957 Tri-Five cars, the most recognizable American cars of the decade and the heart of the classic Chevrolet hobby. The 1957 with its fins and gold grille is an icon, the small-block V8 arrived in these cars, and the two-door hardtops, convertibles, and Nomad wagons are blue-chip collectibles. Parts support for Tri-Fives is the best in the classic world. If you want the Fifties dream car, the Bel Air is it.

Choose the Impala for the Sixties icons, especially the 1958 to 1964 cars with the bubble-top and convertible bodies and the available 348 and 409 big blocks. The Super Sport package made the Impala a genuine performance car, and the 409 is a legend in its own right. Impalas are roomier, ride better, and the lowrider and cruiser communities keep clean examples in strong demand. If you want a Sixties full-size with big-block muscle and presence, the Impala leads.