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.