Turbocharged LY6-Powered 1968 Chevrolet Impala Sport Coupe: A Powerful Classic
The 1968 Chevrolet Impala Sport Coupe is a classic car that has undergone impressive modifications to enhance its performance. Under previous ownership, this vehicle was transformed with the installation of a turbocharged and intercooled 6.0-liter LY6 V8 engine, a 4L80E four-speed automatic transmission, and a 12-bolt rear axle with a Detroit Truetrac limited-slip differential. These upgrades, along with various other enhancements, have turned this Impala into a powerful and thrilling machine.
Exterior and Wheels
The car’s exterior received a sleek black finish during the build process, showcasing its timeless appeal. Key features include quadruple headlights, six taillights, dual side mirrors, and chrome bumpers. The Impala and 327 badging add a touch of nostalgia. The gallery provides close-up photos of the meticulously painted body and stylish trim.
To complement its powerful performance, the Impala is equipped with five-spoke 18″ Ridler wheels wrapped in Nitto NT555 Extreme ZR tires. The front tires measure 255/45, while the rear tires measure 285/40. These wheels not only enhance the car’s aesthetics but also contribute to its superior handling.
Suspension and Braking
The suspension and braking systems of the Turbocharged LY6-Powered 1968 Chevrolet Impala Sport Coupe have been carefully upgraded to ensure optimal control and safety. Notable modifications include:
Front Suspension
- Viking double-adjustable front shocks with adjustable coilovers
- Tubular front control arms with Delrin bushings
- Howe Racing front upper ball joints
- Helwig front anti-sway bar
Rear Suspension
- Viking double-adjustable rear shocks
- UMI Performance adjustable rear upper control arms
- Helwig rear anti-sway bar
Braking System
- Baer Brakes Remaster master brake cylinder
- Baer six-piston front calipers over slotted 13″ rotors
- Baer four-piston rear calipers over slotted 12″ rotors
- Stainless-steel brake lines and braided hoses
These modifications ensure precise handling, improved cornering capabilities, and reliable stopping power.
Interior Features
Step inside the cabin of the Turbocharged LY6-Powered 1968 Chevrolet Impala Sport Coupe, and you’ll find a tastefully designed and comfortable space. The red vinyl upholstery adds a touch of luxury and complements the car’s classic aesthetic. The front bench seat is power-adjustable, allowing for personalized comfort.
Notable interior features include:
- Custom retractable cup holder within the folding center armrest
- Motorola push-button AM radio in the factory location
- JVC stereo with USB and Bluetooth connectivity mounted in the glove compartment and connected to aftermarket speakers
The three-spoke steering wheel gives a vintage feel and complements the car’s overall design. The instrument cluster features a horizontal 120-mph speedometer, a tachometer, a clock, and auxiliary gauges. The MSD 2-Step Launch Control switch, conveniently activated by the horn button, adds an exciting element to the driving experience.
Performance Upgrades
The heart of this modified Impala lies under the hood. The original engine has been replaced with a 6.0-liter LY6 V8 sourced from a 2008 GMC Savana. Prior to installation, the engine received various performance upgrades, including:
- LS3-sourced intake manifold
- Isky Racing Cams camshaft
- Brian Tooley Racing valve springs
- 823 square-port cylinder heads
- LS9-spec cylinder head gaskets
- ARP cylinder head fasteners
- Ceramic-coated turbocharger housing
- Garrett high-density intercooler with ATP cast end tanks
- JGS500R wastegate and 50mm blow-off valve
- Holley fuel injection
- DeWitts radiator
- Rick’s Hot Rod Shop 26-gallon fuel tank
- VaporWorx corner fuel pickups
- PressureWorx Dual Pump PWM controller
The engine is paired with a replacement 4L80E four-speed automatic transmission that has been rebuilt using a Jake’s Transmissions Stage 3 kit. This ensures smooth and precise gear shifts, maximizing the car’s performance capabilities.
Power and Drivetrain
Thanks to the extensive modifications, the Turbocharged LY6-Powered 1968 Chevrolet Impala Sport Coupe boasts impressive power figures. According to dynamometer results from 2021, the engine produces a peak output of 664 horsepower and 790 lb-ft of torque. This substantial power is transferred to the rear wheels through the following drivetrain enhancements:
- Yank Performance torque converter
- Derale Performance transmission cooler
- 4″ aluminum driveshaft
- Sonnax slip yoke
- Moser Engineering rear yoke
- 12-bolt rear axle
- Detroit Truetrac limited-slip differential
- Proform Perfect Launch differential cover
- 3.31:1 gearing
- Moser Engineering 31-spline axles
These modifications ensure that the power generated by the engine is effectively transferred to the road, resulting in an exhilarating driving experience.
Documentation and Ownership
Acquired by the selling dealer in 2021, this Turbocharged LY6-Powered 1968 Chevrolet Impala Sport Coupe comes with a comprehensive package of documentation. Included in the sale are a binder of records from the build, a 1968 Chevrolet assembly manual, and 2021 dynamometer results. The car also comes with a clean New Jersey title, ensuring a hassle-free ownership transfer.
Summary
The Turbocharged LY6-Powered 1968 Chevrolet Impala Sport Coupe is a remarkable vehicle that combines classic style with modern performance enhancements. From its powerful turbocharged engine to its upgraded suspension and braking systems, every aspect of this car has been meticulously modified to deliver an exhilarating driving experience. With its sleek black exterior, luxurious red vinyl interior, and extensive documentation, this Impala stands out as a true collector’s dream.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What engine is in the Turbocharged LY6-Powered 1968 Chevrolet Impala Sport Coupe? The Turbocharged LY6-Powered 1968 Chevrolet Impala Sport Coupe features a 6.0-liter LY6 V8 engine.
Q2: What are the key performance upgrades in this modified Impala? The performance upgrades in this Impala include a turbocharger, intercooler, upgraded cylinder heads, fuel injection system, and enhanced drivetrain components.
Q3: How much power does the modified Impala produce? According to dynamometer results from 2021, the modified Impala produces a peak output of 664 horsepower and 790 lb-ft of torque.
Q4: What transmission does the Turbocharged LY6-Powered 1968 Chevrolet Impala Sport Coupe have? The Turbocharged LY6-Powered 1968 Chevrolet Impala Sport Coupe is equipped with a replacement 4L80E four-speed automatic transmission.
Q5: Does the modified Impala come with any documentation? Yes, the modified Impala comes with a binder of records from the build, a 1968 Chevrolet assembly manual, and 2021 dynamometer results.
