Time to Edit This Post Again.
A while ago, I'd taken delivery of these two cars, almost side by side. The first was a '67 Impala, which made its way over to the workshop almost straight away for some major refit and refurbishment. A lot of hard work went into this machine; in virtually all areas possible. The body, the interior, engine, suspension, ergonomics, cosmetics. And now, by Allah's grace, it's complete. It boasts a good body, a 350 cubic inch (5700 cc) engine, and a three speed automatic transmission. The vehicle rides on 20 inch wheels clad with 295/40 tyres.
My son, Shayaan, was very closely involved with the rebuild of this creature. It was at his insistence that we opted for it to be returned to as close to stock, as was possible. It was at his urging, that we adopted some non-stock touches to embellish and beautify the car, at the same time. Yeh uss ki zidd thi, ke hum iss ko "Supernatural" wali Impala banayen.
This is very much HIS car. I hope that when he grows up a little more (he's currently just short of 17 years of age, and will not be getting the car until he's 18), he learns to appreciate this machine and all others like it. I sincerely hope he also learns how to have fun with these lightning-strike monsters; but does so responsibly, and sensibly.
The other car, is MY car. This one is a '65 which I bought a while ago. It had been recently rebuilt with a 3000 cc 6 cylinder engine, with a 3 speed automatic transmission, and sported 16 inch rims clad with 195/60 tyres. The car underwent some "cosmetic surgery" in the form of a flame-paint job, and also had its interior completely refinished in crimson and black. For the engine, we chucked out the 6 potter and bunged in a 4000 cc 1UZ-FE VVTi, V8, with a 5 speed Tiptronic gearbox. The suspension underwent a complete overhaul, as did the exhaust. The vehicle retains its 'old' rims, but now wears 225/60 tyres.
This car is still 'incomplete' in the sense that it's going to get a cosmetic makeover in the near future. Perhaps some much-needed body work, along with some charcoal-coloured matte wrap, and some re-chroming. Maybe some blacked-out wheels. Until then, it continues to breathe fire on the roads, and be an absolute pleasure to drive and own.
Although, hum baap beta aapas mein, apni apni car ki siftein parhtey rehte hain...we're both grateful to Allah Almighty, who's given us the wherewithal and the opportunity to own these great rides!
