Eugene Bothello's 1959 Impala

The Challenge

Create the American Dream Car Eugene always wanted. Before getting into the car, a little about Eugene; he's loved American cars all his life, but he's from, and lives in Bermuda where big, American classics aren't allowed. But that's all changed now that Eugene lives part-time in the States, and he's set his sights on what he thinks is the sexist car ever built, the 1959 Impala. To be sure, no other car sports a set of fins (or is that wings) the like '59 and once we're done with it, there won't be another '59 Impala like this one.

What We've Done So Far

 As much as Eugene loves classic looks, he wanted the cruising comfort and convenience of modern running gear, so the '59 rides on a Roadster Shop REVO chassis with Little MFG 16" 6 piston brakes all around and one-off Forgeline Wheels, 20's up front with 21's bringing up the rear. For power, the Impala gets a BBT-built LT1 that breathes through a hand-built stainless steel exhaust and is mated to a GM 8speed automatic. Inside, custom aluminum door panels and trim replace the factory stuff and one-of-a-kind machined pieces fill-in for original switches, knobs and more. Our man Phil Cato is handling upholstery, covering the custom-made seat frames. As for the body, what do you do to make the sexist car ever built even sexier? You'll see.