Wednesday, June 1, 2016

sold at auction last fall (Profiles in History auction) the Impala from American Graffiti is now owned by Ray Evernham, and getting a thorough once over before being displayed at SEMA this fall



Ray Evernham has partnered with Axalta Coating Systems, a leading global manufacturer of liquid and powder coatings, to bring this piece of movie history and Americana back to life. The car will go through a tedious forensic preservation and be unveiled in Axalta’s booth (Center hall just below Ford, right front corner pocket of the main floor) at the 2016 SEMA.

After being used in the film, Mike Famalette, only 17 at the time, purchased the car directly from Lucas Films for $285 in 1972. Famalette held onto the car from that time until the auction last fall

The only element Evernham is replacing is the engine, which was destroyed long before he purchased the car. As seen in American Graffiti, the ’58 Impala was equipped with a four-barrel 348, and three-speed manual transmission. Evernham found a 1960 327 Chevy.

With partner Axalta Coating Systems, Evernham will replace the exact paint and pinstripes on the vehicle.  “The paint scheme still represents the most recognizable aspect of this iconic car. Axalta’s goal with this restoration is to precisely match the original colors to preserve the vehicle’s heritage and protect this unique piece of history for years to come.” Harry Christman, North American Cromax® Brand Manager for Axalta. Axalta was able to recreate the exact paint blend, so we’ll return this car to the condition that moviegoers have seen for years.”

Evernham said the complexity of the restoration is daunting, and the time required will far exceed any project his team that has built award-winning, best-in-class cars for SEMA, Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance and the Pinehurst d’Elegance.

“We are applying modern engineering with Bobby Alloway to return this car to the original movie condition,” Evernham said.



Thanks to Debby Robinson at Victory Management Group PR!  http://www.vmg1.com/

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