1977 - 1985 Chevrolet Impala

The 1977 Impala was drastically downsized in length, width, weight, and engine output (though headroom, legroom, and trunk space actually grew). This bold departure from the Impala's full-size high-performance roots was heartily embraced by the buying public, and the Impala was, yet again, America's best seller, as well as Motor Trend Car of the Year.

Technological advances continually improved ride and efficiency, but the model would see just minor styling tweaks into the 1980s. As the industry dealt with reduced demand across the board, the Impala was cut from the Chevrolet line in 1985, not to return until 1994.