1967 Chevrolet Impala - not just a car, but a full-fledged hero of the series “Supernatural” (Supernatural). For 15 seasons, a black Impala with a license plate KAZ 2Y5 became the same symbol of the show as the hunters of evil spirits Sam and Dean Winchester. But why this particular model? How many cars were used during filming? And what other cars appeared in the frame of the main characters and their opponents?
In this article we will look at technical specifications legendary Impala, we will reveal the secrets of its modifications for filming, and also talk about lesser-known cars from the series’ universe - from pickups to motorcycles. You will find out where the original copies are now, how much they cost at auctions and how to play up the “Winchester car” theme in real life - from tuning to buying a replica.
Why Chevrolet Impala 1967?
Choice Chevrolet Impala was not accidental. Screenwriter and creator of the series Eric Kripke explained it this way: the car had to reflect the character of the Winchester brothers - reliable, powerful, with history, but not too luxurious. The 1967 Impala fit the concept perfectly: it was one of the most popular models in the United States in the late 60s, with a recognizable design and a reputation as a workhorse.
In addition, the car had unique “kinematic” feature: its dimensions (length 5.6 m) made it possible to place the camera inside the cabin for filming dialogues while driving. This saved production time and budget, as there was no need to mount the car on a platform for static shots.
- 🔧 Engine: In the original version of 1967 it was installed V8 Small Block volume 5.0–6.5 l (up to 325 hp). The series used modified versions with modern engines for reliability.
- 🎨 Color: Black (
Black) - was chosen for dramatic effect. In reality, the cars were repainted every 2-3 seasons due to scratches and scuffs. - 💰 Cost: Originals at auctions Impala 1967 in good condition today valued at $50 000–$150 000, and “serial” copies - up to $300,000.
How many cars were used on filming?
Over 15 seasons it was involved at least 8 copies Chevrolet Impala 1967. The reasons are simple: intense filming, stunts and natural wear and tear. For example, in the first seasons the car often broke down due to overloads - the film crew even joked that the Impala spent more time being repaired than on the road.
The most famous specimens:
- 🎬 "Hero" car (Hero Car): Used for close-ups and dialogues. It had minimal modifications (reinforced suspension, hidden cameras).
- 💥 Stunt Car: Equipped with protection for filming accidents and chases. The body was reinforced with a metal frame, and the glass was replaced with plastic.
- 🔄 “Stand-ins”: For background scenes and takes. Often these were less preserved specimens or replicas.
| Machine type | Quantity | Features | Fate after filming |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hero Car | 2–3 | Minimal changes, original finish | One copy sold at auction in 2020 for $330,000 |
| Stunt Car | 3–4 | Reinforced body, no engine in some scenes | Disassembled or used in other projects |
| Stand-in | 2+ | Replicas or cars in poor condition | Sold to private collectors |
If you want to buy a replica Impala, pay attention to models with a body Chevrolet Caprice 1990s - they are cheaper and easier to maintain, but visually similar when properly tuned.
Technical modifications for filming
Serial Impala 1967 was not ready for filming loads, so the vehicles underwent extensive modification. Here are the key changes:
- Engine: The original engines were replaced with modern ones LS-series (for example, LS3 volume 6.2 l) for reliability. This allowed the machine to withstand long periods of shooting without overheating.
- Transmission: Installed
4L60E(4-speed automatic) instead of the original 2-speed gearbox Powerglide. - Suspension: Strengthened for off-road filming. In some scenes, air springs were used for a "jump effect".
- Electronics: Hidden cameras, microphones and control panels were added for filming night scenes (for example, dashboard lighting).
Fun fact: in the episode 4x16 "On the Head of a Pin" Dean's car was "killed" by the angel Castiel, but the film crew kept this copy - its Later was restored and used in subsequent seasons as a "zombie Impala".
How did the film crew save on cars?
In some chase scenes they used Chevrolet Caprice 1990s, painted like an Impala. They are easy to distinguish by the shape of the headlights and radiator grille, but this is not noticeable in dynamic shots.
Other vehicles of the Winchesters and their allies
Although Impala - the main car of the series, the Winchester brothers and their allies drove other cars. Here are the most memorable ones:
- 🚗 Ford F-150 (1980s): The pickup truck I drove Bobby Singer (actor Jim Beaver). The car symbolized his pragmatic character - reliable, easy to repair, with a large trunk for weapons.
- 🏍️ Harley-Davidson Softail (2000s): Motorcycle Gene Winchester (brothers' dads). The series shows him as a symbol of his loneliness and freedom.
- 🚘 Dodge Charger 1969: car John Winchester in his youth (shown in flashbacks). Chosen as a contrast to the Impala - a more aggressive design.
- 🚙 Volkswagen Beetle (1960s): The yellow Beetle he drove Charlie Bradbury - a reference to her eccentric character.
It is curious that Allied vehicles often reflected their role in the plot. For example, Bobby on a pickup truck is the hunter’s “workhorse”, and Charlie on the “Beetle” - a symbol of her originality.
☑️ How to choose a Winchester-style car
Antagonist cars: from demons to angels
In Supernatural, cars often became part of the villain's image. For example:
- 👿 1960s Cadillac DeVille: car Crowley (king of hell). The black sedan with chrome details emphasized its authority and old-fashioned style.
- 😈 Dodge Challenger 1970: Auto Lucifer in the body Nika. The red color and powerful engine symbolized its destructive power.
- 😇 Mercedes-Benz S-Class (2010s): car Metatron - white, luxurious, with tinted windows, like a “bureaucrat angel”.
The film crew specially selected cars for the antagonists so that they contrasted with the Impala. If vintage Impala was associated with the “humanity” of the brothers, the demon cars were either overly luxurious or aggressively modern.
The color of the car in the series has always had a symbolic meaning: black for heroes and neutral characters, red for demons, white for angels.
Where are the original cars from the series now?
Most copies Chevrolet Impala After filming ended, they were sold at auction or transferred to private collections. The most famous fates:
- Hero Car #1: Sold at auction Julien’s Auctions in 2020 for $330 000. The buyer is an anonymous collector from Texas.
- Stunt Car #2: Used on tours of the series' filming locations in Vancouver, Canada.
- Replica for exhibitions: Located in Warner Bros. Studio Tour in Burbank (California).
Interestingly, some cars were dismantled for parts to restore other instances. For example, the body of one of the stunt doubles was used to repair the “heroic” Impala after filming season 10, where the car was seriously damaged in an accident scene.
If you want to see the original Impala, visit Warner Bros. Studio Tour in Los Angeles - one of the cars used in seasons 5-7 is displayed there.
How to buy a replica Impala: tips and pitfalls
Demand for replicas Chevrolet Impala 1967 grew up after the series ended. However, buying such a car requires caution. Here's what to consider:
- 🔍 Check the history: Original Impala 1967 often counterfeited. Inquire
VIN codeand check it through databases (eg Carfax). - 💸 Budget for renovation: Even if the car looks good, be prepared to spend $20 000–$50 000 for body and engine restoration.
- 🔧 Spare parts: Some parts (such as the original grille or steering wheel) are difficult to find. You will have to order from specialized suppliers (for example, YearOne or Classic Industries).
- 📜 Documents: In Russia and the CIS countries, retro cars older than 30 years can be registered according to a simplified scheme, but an examination will be required to ensure compliance with the original.
⚠️ Attention: When purchasing a replica, check whether a modern engine is installed (for example, LS-series). The original 1967 engines are difficult to maintain and require specialized workshops.
Average cost of replicas on the secondary market:
| Replica type | Price (USD) | What's included |
|---|---|---|
| Budget (based on Caprice 1990s) | $15 000–$30 000 | External tuning, standard engine |
| Medium (with LS engine) | $40 000–$80 000 | Reinforced suspension, improved finish |
| Premium (full replica with history) | $100 000–$200 000 | Original parts, certificate of authenticity |
FAQ: Answers to popular questions
Is it possible to buy the original Impala from the series?
Yes, but it is extremely difficult. Most of the original cars are sold at closed auctions. Sometimes instances appear on eBay or specialized sites (for example, Bring a Trailer), but prices start at $200,000. An alternative is to visit exhibitions or tours of film sets where props are shown.
What engine did the Impala from the series have?
Cars with modern engines were used in most scenes LS3 (6.2 l, 430 hp) or LS1 (5.7 l, 350 hp). Original 1967 engines (Small Block 327 or Big Block 427) were too unreliable for filming. In some episodes, engine sound was added in post-production.
How much does insurance cost for a 1967 Chevrolet Impala?
The cost of insurance for a vintage car depends on the region and storage conditions. In the USA, an annual policy for Impala 1967 costs $1 500–$3 000 (subject to limited mileage and garage storage). In Russia, MTPL insurance is possible only after passing a technical inspection, which is difficult for cars over 30 years old. An alternative is voluntary insurance from specialized companies (for example, Ingosstrakh).
Is it possible to legally drive an Impala in Russia?
Yes, but with reservations. Cars over 30 years old can be registered as a “vintage car” with simplified equipment requirements (for example, no airbags required). However, you will need:
- Pass an examination for compliance with the original.
- Apply for temporary import (if the car was purchased abroad).
- Install modern lighting devices (according to GOST).
Cost of legalization – from 200,000 rubles (excluding customs clearance).
Where can you see the Impala in real life?
Several places where cars from the series or their replicas are displayed:
- 📍 Warner Bros. Studio Tour (Los Angeles, USA): Permanent display of Supernatural props.
- 📍 Vancouver Film School (Canada): Sometimes they conduct tours of film sets.
- 📍 Vintage car dealerships: For example, Goodwood Festival of Speed (UK) or SEMA Show (Las Vegas, USA).
- 📍 Private collections: Some replica owners participate in thematic meetings (for example, Supernatural Conventions).