Sixth Generation | 1977–1985
Source: Chevrolet Pressroom
| Trim | Production | Engine | Power | Transmission | Drivetrain |
| 6th Gen | 1977 | 4.1L Inline-6 | 110 HP / 111 PS / 82 kW | 3/4-Speed Automatic | RWD |
| 6th Gen | 1978 – 1979 | 4.4 – 5.7L V8 | 120 – 190 HP / 121 – 192 PS / 89 – 141 kW | 3/4-Speed Automatic | RWD |
| 6th Gen | 1980 – 1985 | 3.6L V6 | ~125 HP / ~126 PS / ~93 kW | 3/4-Speed Automatic | RWD |
To meet changing demands in the automobile marketplace, Chevrolet redesigned the Impala for the 1977 model year. The new downsized Impalas were shorter, taller, and narrower than their predecessors, featuring increased headroom, rear-seat legroom, and trunk space. The 1977 Impala/Caprice redesign received accolades, including being named Motor Trend’s car of the year. Pillarless hardtops were discontinued, and the coupe models sported a double bent tempered rear window.
Source: Michael via Flickr
Engine options for the 1977 Impala were reduced, with the reintroduction of the inline-6 engine producing 110 hp. V8 engines in 267 and 305 cubic inches were also available, along with the optional 350 cubic-inch V8 and Oldsmobile’s 350 cubic-inch V8 diesel engine. Starting in 1980, the inline-6 was replaced by a generic 229 cubic-inch V6 from Chevrolet. The Impala and Caprice continued to sell well into the early 1980s, with the Impala serving as a popular choice for fleet usage, including taxi and police-pursuit vehicles.
