| The 1963 Impala Z11 was a limited-production, factory-built drag racing car with a special 427 cubic-inch engine and an aluminum body, designed for NASCAR and Super Stock drag racing. About 57 were built. They featured a stripped-down interior with no radio or heater to save weight. Officially, the model was a production vehicle, but in reality, it was a small-run homologation special for those in the know. With the right connections and $4,000, you could get your hands on the 1963 Impala Z11. |  |
| Under the hood lurked a 427 cubic-inch V8 purpose-built for racing. It was equipped with a longer stroke, a two piece high-rise aluminum intake, dual four-barrel carbs, and a special cowl induction system. Thanks to a 13.5:1 compression ratio, the 427 produced a rated 430 horsepower. Real output was said to be closer to 500hp. That was mated to a close ratio 4 speed transmission. The Z11 Impala came with an aluminum hood, fenders, and bumpers. The Impala Z11 was far from cheap. The package added $1,240 to the price of a regular Impala. |  |
 | Tipping the scales at 3,500 pounds (1,588 kg), the Z11 needed only 4.3 seconds to hit 60 mph (97 kph) and covered the quarter-mile in just 10.8. It was the first stock car to exceed 120 mph (193 kph) in a quarter-mile run. With fewer than 50 survivors, the Impala Z11 is a prized collectible. They rarely appear on the auction block, but when they do, they can command prices over $300k. This example high bid to $298k in 2023 at Bring a Trailer. |
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