Manny Soto, of San Bernardino, California, has been into lowriding for a long time. He's seen the trendy lowrider cars cruising the streets and on display at the local car shows. Typically, he says he sees Impalas and Cadillacs.
Today a '70 Chevy Malibu is a favorite among many hot-rod enthusiasts, but it was also popular among lowriders back in the day, and that old-school style is what Manny likes. When a local peace officer picked up this '70 Malibu from a recent police-seized auto auction, Manny couldn't keep his eyes off of it. The previous owner had kept the Malibu in very good condition and had kept all the records, including maintenance receipts. Unfortunately the old owner died and didn't include the vehicle in her will, so it became government property. Manny was able to talk the new owner (the officer) into selling the Chevy to him for a mere $2,500. "It was the best money I ever spent!" Manny says.
He was quick to add major upgrades to the Malibu, including a custom airbag suspension, a new audio system, a new paintjob, and new upholstery. Manny fabricated a custom billet-style grille for the front end, and the Hoak Brothers, of San Bernardino, California, dipped some of the suspension parts in chrome.
As far as the Malibu's future, Manny is debating on whether to add airbrushed murals to the body's exterior, but for now he's very happy with the outcome of his nine years of work. Friends say that he's always down to drive his old-school lowriding Malibu and cruise around town. Manny would like to thank Art at Aco's and Javier Montoo for their support throughout the years.
JuicyOwner: Manny SotoVehicle: '70 Chevy MalibuCity/State: San Bernardino, CaliforniaClub: Classic Style Car Club
Engine: '85 Chevy crate 350-cid V-8 with Headman hedders and an Edelbrock carburetor, intake, and aluminum valve covers. A 350 turbo transmission and a 21/2-inch exhaust with Hush Power mufflers were installed by FMS, in San Bernardino, California. Aco's Custom and Factory Restorations, in Colton, California, handled the engine installation and work.
Interior: George at George's Custom Upholstery, in Redlands, California, oversaw the OG-style suede and leather upholstery upgrade throughout the vehicle's interior. A custom chrome Grant steering wheel added the final elegant touches to the inside.
Body: Javier Montoo from On the Spot Custom Paints, in Palm Springs, California, took care of any prep work the body needed before spraying it with a beautiful burgundy finish topped with violet pearl. Fred Payan, of San Bernardino, added the pinstriping.
System: Troy's crew at Extreme Audio, in San Bernardino, handled the entertainment system in Manny's Malibu. A Pioneer Premier head unit manages the sounds over Pioneer tweeters, midrange speakers, and Koiiler woofers.
Setup: Manny opted to go with a newer-age custom suspension control for his classic lowrider. Art Flores at Aco's Custom and Factory Restoration, in Colton, installed a Universal Air/Mac's Springs airbag suspension setup.
Wheels: 13-inch Dayton wheels with Zenith knockoffs
Tires: 13-inch 5.20 Coker whitewalls
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Model: Queen Esther (www.myspace.com/estherhanuka)
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By Dustin "Volo" Pedder
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