A unique Chevrolet Impala Wagon has been crowned the 2021 Snap-on Custom of the Year by the Goodguys Rod & Custom Association.
The two-door custom Impala was named the winner at the recent Goodguys Autumn Get-Together event, held in Pleasanton, California.
It means the special Chevy, named ‘Impressive’, will head to the Goodguys 24th Speedway Motors Southwest Nationals this weekend.
Impressive by name and nature
‘Impressive’ is the result of a nine-year build process, undertaken by the Minnesota-based Ranweiler family.
The work was all undertaken at the family’s Show Cars Automotive shop, and included converting a four-door Impala Wagon to a bespoke two-door version.
Changes include the roof being chopped, the windshield angle reclined, and the B- and C-pillars fabricated from scratch.
An entirely unique front end has been installed, with the fenders and other panels welded to the cowl for a completely seamless appearance. The grille and bumpers are also custom items.
Combining luxury and performance
Powering ‘Impressive’ is a 509-cubic inch V-8 engine, fitted with a Hillborn fuel injection system. It sends 600 horsepower to the rear wheels via a 4L60E transmission.
A modified Art Morrison chassis has been used, bringing updated suspension to the build. Custom EVOD wheels are fitted, with the rears a sizeable 20×12 inches.
Inside, there’s a 1960 Chevrolet Impala dashboard, but with Dakota Digital gauges. Custom-dyed Italian leather wraps the 1959 Cadillac Eldorado seats.
Bespoke metal trim, created by the Ranweilers, has been used throughout the cabin.
Another trophy for the cabinet
Living up to its name, ‘Impressive’ has already collected multiple awards. In 2020, it won the prestigious Ridler Award at the Detroit Autorama, and later took honors in the SEMA Show Battle of the Builders competition.
Victory in the Snap-on Custom of the Year category will see it displayed as part of the Goodguys Top 12 Cars & Trucks of the Year at the Southwest Nationals.
The Goodguys 24th Speedway Motors Southwest Nationals will be held in Scottsdale, Arizona. Taking place from Friday 19 November to Sunday 21 November, it marks the culmination of the Goodguys 2021 show season.
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