Description
Lot #1003 - This sensational custom Impala was commissioned by Vanessa Bryant, the wife of Los Angeles Lakers all-star guard and five-time NBA world champion Kobe Bryant as a gift for her husband for Christmas in 2006. West Coast Customs of Corona, CA, the famed shop that inspired MTV's Pimp My Ride was retained by Mrs. Bryant to create the ultimate Impala lowrider. Starting with the strongest of foundations, a rust-free 1963 Impala, the team at WCC disassembled the car and blasted the body to bare metal in preparation for a multi-coat paint finish in a deluxe mix of purple and royal blue that was custom blended by the renowned House of Kolor. The original 327cid V8 engine was completely rebuilt with custom Edelbrock headers and billet accessories, feeding a brand new glass pack dual exhaust system. The front brakes were converted to a power disc set up, while a standalone tachometer and power tilt-function steering wheel were added for improved driver comfort and performance. As with any true lowrider, the suspension was completely customized with a comprehensive hydraulic system featuring a pair of Pro Hopper "Envious Touch" pumps, three Adel dumps and front 6" and rear 12" cylinders, all controlled via four switches and powered by eight batteries and eight solenoids. Furthermore, a rear coilover configuration and molded upper A-arms were added for overall ride quality. The body received all new glass, moldings and weather stripping, while the brightwork was fastidiously re-chromed. The interior was beautifully re-worked, with all new white leather upholstery studded with genuine Swarovsky crystals and offset by royal blue piping and carpets. 13" 100-spoke Dayton wire wheels mounted with P155/80-R13 Reliant Super Ride tires completed the exterior cosmetics, while a trunk-mounted stereo system featuring a powerful Sony amplifier and multiple speakers and subwoofers round out the interior amenities. Featured in the November 2007 Lowrider magazine, this outstanding '63 Impala drop-top presents with breathtaking quality and boasts connections to one of professional basketball's greatest legends.