Green Day’s Billie Joe Armstrong ’64 Chevy Impala Up For Sale
Iconic ’64 Impala SS with Green Day Ties Now Up for Grabs
Car enthusiasts and Green Day fans, prepare yourselves. A piece of automotive and rock history is hitting the market, and it’s bound to turn heads. This 1964 Chevrolet Impala SS, once owned by Green Day’s frontman Billie Joe Armstrong, is now up for sale on Bring a Trailer. Restored with passion and cared for with meticulous attention, this Impala SS carries a rich backstory that adds to its allure.
This isn’t just any car. It’s a combination of vintage American muscle, celebrity ownership, and classic automotive culture, all wrapped into one. Let’s dive into the details of this unique machine, its history, and why this car deserves a spot in any serious car collector’s garage.
Billie Joe Armstrong 1964 Chevrolet Impala SS - Via Bringatrailer
A Classic in the Spotlight
The 1964 Chevrolet Impala SS has always been an iconic symbol of American muscle. Armstrong’s particular example, powered by a 283ci Turbo-Fire V8 paired with a Powerglide two-speed automatic transmission, isn’t just any Impala. This car spent much of its life cruising the sunny roads of California before receiving a full restoration in the late 2000s. It’s a genuine piece of Americana, combining power, style, and history.
As you may know, the Impala SS was the flagship of Chevrolet’s full-size lineup during the early 1960s. It’s renowned for its sleek body lines, V8 power, and luxurious interior that, even by today’s standards, screams classic muscle car appeal. The Impala SS was built to offer drivers the best of both worlds: comfort and performance.
But this specific ’64? It stands out because of who once held the keys. Billie Joe Armstrong, the punk rock legend himself, owned this beauty, adding to its rich story. He sold it in 2013, but since then, the car has continued to receive the care and attention it deserves.
What’s Under the Hood?
Let’s talk power. The heart of this machine is its 283ci V8 engine, a real workhorse from the era. Sure, it’s not a 409, but it’s more than capable of delivering that satisfying rumble every car enthusiast craves. With a Powerglide two-speed automatic transmission, this Impala isn’t built for blistering drag strip times. Instead, it’s all about enjoying a smooth, leisurely cruise down the highway, maybe with Green Day blasting through the speakers.
Speaking of cruising, the car received a tune-up in 2021, ensuring that the engine is purring just as it should. The carburetor was also fine-tuned, and the Powerglide shifts smoothly. Whether you’re a fan of vintage muscle or a rocker looking for some nostalgia, this Impala’s V8 offers the kind of old-school driving experience that modern cars simply can’t replicate.
Exterior Charm: Classic Chevy Styling
Originally finished in a two-tone combination of Ermine White and Azure Aqua, the Impala has since been repainted in a striking blue that still shines beautifully today. The chrome bumpers, bright trim, quad headlights, and recessed tail panel make this a head-turner in any setting. While the car has some cosmetic imperfections—scratches on the hood and headlight moldings, as well as paint blisters on the trunk lid—it still oozes charm. After all, it’s been around for six decades and seen plenty of miles.
The five-spoke American Racing 15-inch wheels wrapped in Cooper Cobra Radial G/T tires offer a touch of modern flair while maintaining that classic vibe. The dual exhaust outlets emit a throaty roar when you step on the gas, a reminder that you’re driving an authentic piece of muscle car history.
Interior: Vintage Meets Rock
Step inside, and you’re greeted by an interior finished in white vinyl. It features a classic bench seat that invites you to sit back, relax, and soak in the nostalgia. The engine-turned dashboard trim, center console, and wood-rimmed steering wheel give the car a refined touch, while the SS-branded front floor mats scream muscle car pride.
A Sony CD stereo provides modern sound, but with a twist. The car comes with an autographed Crescent electric guitar, signed by all three members of Green Day. Yes, this car carries a piece of rock history with it. There’s also a shop manual, wheel covers, and a voided title bearing Armstrong’s name, adding to the car’s provenance.
The interior isn’t without its own refurbishments either. In 2020, the headliner and sun visors were replaced, and the trunk was refurbished in 2021. The fuel tank was also swapped out, ensuring that this Impala is ready for the road. It’s a rolling piece of rock and automotive culture.
Driving Experience: Pure Vintage Pleasure
Behind the wheel, the Impala SS gives you that quintessential 1960s driving experience. It’s not a car you buy to push to the limit; it’s a cruiser, built for comfort and style. Power steering makes maneuvering this big, heavy car a breeze, while drum brakes at all four corners provide adequate stopping power for the era. Though the suspension could use a little work—the rear corner reportedly rattles due to worn shocks—this doesn’t take away from the overall driving experience.
There’s nothing quite like driving a car like this down a coastal highway or through winding backroads, feeling the rumble of the V8 beneath you, while the wind whips through the open windows. This is the kind of car that makes you fall in love with driving all over again.
The Collector’s Appeal
Owning a piece of rock and roll history is a dream for many. But when that piece also comes in the form of a classic Chevrolet Impala SS, it’s an absolute treasure. This car, with its ties to Green Day and Billie Joe Armstrong, is more than just a vehicle; it’s a collectible, a conversation starter, and a slice of Americana that only grows more valuable with time.
Sure, it has some imperfections—the hood is misaligned, and the power-steering valve could use replacing—but these are small issues for a car with such a storied past. It’s the type of car that will only appreciate in value, especially when you factor in its connection to a punk rock legend.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Have for Enthusiasts
Billie Joe Armstrong’s 1964 Chevrolet Impala SS is more than just a classic car. It’s a part of automotive and music history, wrapped in a body that embodies everything we love about American muscle cars. From its 283ci V8 to its celebrity ownership, this Impala has a story to tell—and it’s a story that any car enthusiast or collector would love to be a part of.
If you’re looking for a car that combines rock star pedigree with classic muscle charm, this Impala SS might just be the perfect addition to your collection. Photo Credit – Via Rockaxis / qradio
