How to Spot a Correct 1965 Impala Super Sport Grille (and Avoid the Offshore Reproduction Follies)

A special thanks to friend and enthusiast Lou Baksa for his insight into this 65 Impala SS detail!

When it comes to restoring a classic Chevy, details matter—just like the grille differences between the 1965 Impala and the 1965 Impala Super Sport (SS). Whether you're hunting for an original part or comparing reproductions, knowing what’s correct can save you money, time, and even a few cuts on your hands.

In this guide, we’ll break down the real differences between factory SS and standard Impala grilles—and show you how to identify the low-quality offshore reproductions that have flooded the market.

How to Identify Cheap Offshore Reproduction Grilles

There are some dead giveaways when you're dealing with off-shore (primarily Chinese) grille reproductions:

1. No Black Vertical Accents

The most obvious sign: the vertical bars are never painted black on the offshore versions.
Factory-correct SS grilles always feature black accents, making this mistake extremely easy to spot.

2. Razor-Sharp Back Edges

Original GM grilles—and quality reproductions—go through a finishing process where the backside edges are filed smooth.
Offshore reproductions skip that step entirely.
The result? Every edge is razor sharp. Handle them wrong and you'll get cut instantly.

These two flaws alone tell you you’re looking at a cheap reproduction, not a correct SS-style grille.

Yes—The 1965 Impala SS Used a Different Grille

Contrary to what many assume, the ’65 Impala SS did not share the same grille as the standard Impala. Chevrolet gave the SS its own visual identity, and the grille design played a big role in that.

Here’s how they differ:

1965 Impala vs. 1965 Impala Super Sport: Grille Comparison

Why the SS Grille Looks Different

The Super Sport package was Chevrolet’s performance-oriented trim—so it needed a look to match. The black vertical accents give the SS grille a more aggressive, sport-focused appearance, separating it visually from the standard Impala’s brighter, more decorative design.

Those black accents are not optional. They’re part of what makes an SS grille an SS grille.

Summary

• The 1965 Impala SS grille is not the same as the standard 1965 Impala grille.

• Authentic SS grilles feature black vertical accents and Super Sport scripts.

• Low-quality offshore reproductions skip the black paint and leave the backside dangerously sharp.

• When buying a grille, always check the finish, paint, and edge quality to avoid cheap imitations.