USA vs USA — 1958 vs 1951
| Impala SS 409 | Belvedere 426 Max Wedge | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 425 hp | 425 hp |
| Torque | 425 lb-ft | 480 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 6,702 cc | 6,981 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.3 sec | 5.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 125 mph | 130 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.2 sec | 13.2 sec |
| Weight | 3,800 lbs | 3,300 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,997 mm | 2,946 mm |
| Length | 5,398 mm | 5,067 mm |
| Original MSRP | $3,261 | $3,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $150,000 | $250,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 9/10 |
The 1951 Plymouth Belvedere 426 Max Wedge emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering quicker acceleration, higher top speed, lighter weight. The 1958 Chevrolet Impala SS 409 counters with better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
The 1958 Chevrolet Impala SS 409 and 1951 Plymouth Belvedere 426 Max Wedge stand as two of the most notable Muscle Car cars from Post-war. Both emerged during a period of intense competition, and choosing between them remains a passionate debate among collectors. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1958 Chevrolet Impala SS 409 producing 425 hp and the 1951 Plymouth Belvedere 426 Max Wedge delivering 425 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Chevrolet Impala uses a V8 OHV (W-series big-block) displacing 6,702 cc, while the Plymouth Belvedere relies on a V8 OHV with 6,981 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1951 Plymouth Belvedere 426 Max Wedge edges ahead at 5.5 seconds versus 6.3 seconds. The Plymouth Belvedere carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 500 lbs lighter. Both cars have earned their place in automotive history and continue to captivate enthusiasts around the world.