1964 Chevrolet Impala “Gypsy Rose”

Apr 16

Quick Specs

Imperials Car Club, East LA
Over 100 hand-painted roses by Walt Prey.
Chico and the Man (1974-1978), and featured in advertisements for Boulvard Nights (1979).

The Genesis of the Modern Lowrider

“Gypsy Rose,” the most recognizable lowrider car in the world, was the brainchild of Jesse Valadez, founder of Imperials Car Club in East Los Angeles. This 1964 Impala was actually the third vehicle bearing the name—the first, while distinctive, was replaced by a more elaborate second version which, in turn, was destroyed. High regard for the first two cars led Valadez to create this stunning final iteration in 1974. The car gained national attention when it appeared cruising down Whittier Boulevard during the opening of the television comedy Chico and the Man (1974-1978). It was also featured in advertisements for the movie Boulevard Nights (1979).

“Gypsy Rose” is painted candy pink, red, and white and adorned with over 100 roses by customizing legend Walt Prey. The interior features crushed velvet upholstery, chandeliers, and a cocktail bar. The car’s immediate popularity, amplified by its bold aesthetic traits, helped solidify the 1964 Chevrolet Impala as the quintessential lowrider model in the popular imagination. However, many staple features of modern lowriders, such as wire wheels, were not yet standard on lowriders at the time of the car’s creation. In fact, the modifications made to “Gypsy Rose” may seem simple in comparison to many modern lowrider builds; since its arrival on the scene, lowrider cars have come to reflect more advanced customization, with purpose-built hydraulics, chopped tops, suicide doors, engraving, and even more complicated murals and designs. Nevertheless, its exquisite details and significance within the burgeoning lowriding movement make “Gypsy Rose” the most iconic lowrider of all time, and the car still inspires the custom community today.

Collection of Jesse Valdez

This Vehicle featured in ‘Best in Low: Lowrider Icons of the Street and Show’ Exhibit