Now that the cosmetic aspects of the car were completed, the original 348 engine was sent out to Mike of High Desert Machinery in New Mexico, so that he could rebuild the engine back to the original blueprint specs. Mike also tuned the temperamental triple deuce carburetors, or as they are sometimes referred to, "The Tri-power" set-up. It took Mike a while to dial them in, but once they were tuned, the big block ran perfectly. The factory AC was connected so that the car could blow cold air, even in the hot California summers. To accomplish this, however, Benny had to track down a rare air cleaner that bolted on with an offset, in order for it to clear the AC pump. With so much power under the hood, the only modern upgrade that was added to the car came in the form of disc brakes, used to allow the car to stop on a dime.
Benny could not have put this car together without the support of his loving wife Cindy, and the support of his four children. Benny had originally bought a '58 convertible 18 years ago, right before getting married, but once he tied the knot, he couldn't afford to restore it and was forced to sell it to provide for his family. Benny was finally able to buy this '58 convertible six years ago, allowing him to fulfill his 18-year-long dream, proving that good things come to those who wait.
Mafioso '58
Owner: Benny Godoy
Vehicle: '58 Chevrolet Impala convertible
City/State: Fullerton, California
Club: No Club
Engine: Stock 348-c.i.d. tri power engine
Suspension: ViAir compressor with Universal Air bags to allow the car to lay out and lock up at the flip of a switch
Tires: P155/80-R13 Hankook radials
Wheels: 13x7 chrome Dayton wire wheels