Hot Rod Station Wagons Are the Coolest

American, Classics  /   /  By Daniel Gray

This magnificent unrestored 1959 Ice Blue Chevrolet Impala Parkwood station wagon, now listed on eBay, may have been prepared in Kentucky. But with the nickname “Maui,” it longs for the ocean swells. Flip down the rear seat and there’s plenty of room to carry surfboards (or sheetrock). Cowabunga, dude.

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The Parkwood was the middle child in the Chevy station wagon family in the model years running from 1959 to 1961. It sits between the entry-level Brookwood and the iconic Nomad. It could be ordered in two- or three-row configurations and could be equipped with a 283 or 348 cubic-inch V8 engine. A 235 cubic-inch straight six was available as well. Owners had the choice of a three- or four-speed manual transmission, in addition to the venerable two-speed Powerglide automatic. The Parkwood was superseded by the Biscayne in the 1962 model year.

The decades have been relatively easy on this Parkwood survivor. Maui’s ice blue paint is untouched, but well seasoned with surface rust. More aggressive rust has taken hold in a few spots and will need attention. The driver’s side rear quarter panel has a hole behind the wheel well. Rust is also present on both rear drop rails.

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The seller updated the Parkwood with a tasty suspension drop, along with a newer engine and transmission. The dropped suspension was accomplished with lowering springs and spindles along with KYB shocks. “The result is a smooth ride, great handling and the ability to turn on a dime,” says the seller.

The original engine and transmission have been replaced with a 350 small block. The V8 has been heated up with a Lopey Erson cam and an Offenhauser Three Deuce intake manifold topped with three two-barrel Rochester carburetors. A Turbo Hydramatic 350 transmission replaces the original Powerglide.

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The wheel wells are well filled. American Racing Salt Flat wheels—18-inch in front and 20-inch in back—are fitted with with spinners and wrapped with 220/40/ZR18 radials up front and 275/35/ZR20s out back. The power brake system has been updated with a new CPP master cylinder/booster and disc brakes in front.

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The two-row interior is original, with the exception of seat covers, front carpet and tailgate mat. The steering wheel is in nice shape considering the age and the headliner looks to be intact. The dashboard and door panels are unmarred by an aftermarket stereo. (The seller offers Bluetooth stereo boxes built from vintage luggage to wirelessly stream the tunes from your smartphone.)

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Although the windshield sports a 1977 inspection sticker, the Parkwood is a veteran of the Hot Rod Power Tour. All of the glass is original. The title is clear and the seller offers free enclosed delivery within the 48 lower states.

We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: we love classic station wagons. This Parkwood survivor is a marvelous example.

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About the Author

Daniel Gray is a best-selling tech author, trail-blazing blogger, recovering road-test editor, OG automotive YouTuber, and semi-retired delivery driver. His latest project, “The Last Mile Is the Front Line,” explores the over-hyped promises and unseen challenges of grocery delivery, where sustainability is paramount.