1963 CHEVROLET IMPALA SS CONVERTIBLE
How long have you owned it?
“I bought it from an old man who had it stored in his garage, so it sat for 15 years. … I’ve had it for nine years. It took me about eight years to restore it, and last year was the first year that I got to drive it. “
How much money have you put into it?
“It’s insured at $40,000, and I bought it at $4,000, so I would say $36,000 dollars.”
Feature you’re most proud of:
“[The hydraulic suspension] is the only thing that makes it not original. … It was around before I was born. Why change it?”
How often do you drive it? Ever put it in shows?
“I drive it on Sunday afternoons and weekends, nice weekends. We like to go different locations, cruise, hang out. It doesn’t go out at night though.”
Do you own another vehicle?
“It’s more of a hot rod, an original 1990 Mustang Saleen. I have an everyday driver, a 1990 Honda Civic.”
If you could trade up to another vehicle, what would it be?
“A 1966 Mercedes Benz convertible. But just to buy it costs $35,000, and that’s before you even do anything to the car.”
1963 CHEVROLET IMPALA SS
How long have you owned it?
“Two years. It was a piece of junk [before].”
How much money have you put into it?
“To bring the car back, I put about $20,000 into it.”
Feature you’re most proud of:
“Probably my firewall in the engine … it’s all smoothed out. “
How often do you drive it?
“As much as possible. I usually park it outside, and people are like ‘Whoa!'”
Do you own another vehicle?
“A 2005 Chrysler 300 C, and I’ve got a 2005 GMC Denali. Within the whole family, it’s about 20 cars. I’m talking about nephews, cousins, uncles–we have a car club (www.purafamilia.com).”
If you could trade up to another car, what would it be?
“My dream vehicle is a 1957 Chevy Belair Convertible. Oh yeah. If I ever find one, I’m picking it up.”
What are your favorite sources for parts, gear, bodywork, etc.?
“For bodywork, Creator Body Shop on the South Side; it’s a small shop, but it’s quality work. For stereos, ABC Automotive Stereo and Alarm. For old parts, the Parts Place in Elburn.”
