The fifth-generation Chevy Impala offered a big block V8 engine. Its rear bumpers were unchanged. The fourth-generation Impala set the all-time industry sales record. It was also a revolutionary car with significant changes to its under-body. It was the first of the two full-size sedans to feature a full-width frame. Its fuel economy was impressive, and it was widely popular in the police and taxi fleets.

The Impala was a popular car in the early 1960s. However, by 1982, it had lost its popularity to pony cars and was sold only to luxury buyers. In 1985, it was a luxury family sedan. Its production ended, and it was no longer available until a few years later. The redesigned model of the Impala, called the Caprice, was the only full-size sport coupe left in the lineup.

The first generation of the 1985 Chevy Impala was a luxury sedan, which sold one million units in its first year. The next-generation model was the Chevy Impala SS. Its 5.3-liter V8 engine had a powerful 303 horsepower rating. The non-SS versions came with various V6 engines. By the time the last generation was launched, the Impala had six-cylinder and V8 options.