What is an Impala SS 409?

Mike Sullivan By Mike Sullivan · 1 min read · Updated Jun 2026
Quick Answer
The Impala SS 409 is an early-1960s Impala Super Sport fitted with the 409 cubic inch W-series big-block V8, offered from 1961 to 1965 with up to 425 hp in dual-quad form. It is one of the original full-size muscle cars and the car immortalized by the Beach Boys.

The SS 409 married Chevrolet's sportiest full-size trim with its hottest big-block.

The package

The Super Sport added bucket seats, trim, and instrumentation; the 409 brought the power, climbing to 425 hp with two four-barrels. These were drag-strip heroes in the early sixties.

Buyer's note

Genuine SS 409 cars are valuable and cloned. Verify the engine casting, the SS trim, and any documentation before paying the premium.

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