Thanks for the good wishes, Owais. Let's keep our fingers crossed for the best, Insha Allah.
The '64 Impala is going to be a far more ambitious project than either the '65 or the '67. The reason for this, is that for the '64 is going to involve a much more intricate and detailed rebuild than the other Impalas. Something that would be more along the lines of a true blinged-out lowrider restomod.
For now, some of the things that I've planned are as under:-
1) Undercarriage: to include restoring the frame, chrome plating the suspension arms, chrome plating the exhaust, chrome plating the coil springs, chrome plating the fuel tank. If possible / economical, I'd also like to fit a "simple" hydraulic system; something that drops and raises the car, without any flashy bumps or hops. This would come in handy, not just for cosmetic appearances, but to make sure it's more suited to our roads, whilst retaining the ability to be dropped.
2) Body: I'm not too keen on chopping the roof off this beautiful specimen, for the simple reason that building an authentic-looking convertible roof would be virtually impossible. However, I am very keen on it being a two-door hardtop coupe. This should actually be very easy, because the car is already a pillarless vehicle, so by shifting the B-Post back and by lengthening the front door, we should manage to bring all the proportions into shape. For the paint job, I'm hoping to give it something with pinstripes, multiple layers, metallic flakes, and gradient fills. Something completely unique, and eye-popping! I'm still in search of someone who could do some airbrush artwork for me. Please...if anyone has any idea of where such an innovative airbrush artist can be found...do let me know.
3) Engine and mechanicals: Having finally gotten everything right with the '65, there is no doubt in my mind: until a better engine choice comes along, the 1UZ-FE VVTi is THE engine for this machine. I'm on the lookout for one with a Tiptronic gearbox, the complete wiring harness / looms, and this time around, for the rear axle from a Lexus LS400, too. Hopefully, I should be able to lay my hands on a half-cut again. This should make for absolutely mind-boggling performance!
4) The interior: This time, no fabric or leatherette! We're going to use leather, suede, and more leather. And then some more leather...and then some more! Something absolutely fabulous, luxuriant, and indulgent. And some of the those styling touches that are unique to lowriders: the ergonomics of the trunk, the sound system, the dash and dials etcetera.
For now, though...the quiet, persistent search for all the right things continues. This time around, no rushed activities. No hurry. This time, this rebuild is going to be a disciplined, determined quest for perfection, Insha Allah.
