Roaring Elegance: Pieter Thomas And His Bagged 1962 Chevy Biscayne

Cruising through the social media automotive universe, our engines roared with excitement when we stumbled upon Pieter Thomas and his jaw-dropping 1962 Chevy Biscayne. Little did we know, this low-rider beauty had a history intertwined with a famous rugby player. Buckle up as we dive into the world of Pieter Thomas and his meticulously restored Chevy Biscayne, a testament to the glory days of American muscle.

Photos by Jan van Der Walt

The Chevy Biscayne Legacy: The Chevy Biscayne, a full-size production marvel from 1958 to 1972, emerged as the epitome of affordable elegance. Born after a show car displayed at the 1955 GM Motorama, it was the stripped-down sibling of the Bel-Air and Impala, boasting a lower price tag. Pieter Thomas, a man accustomed to the thunderous symphony of V8 engines since childhood, felt an irresistible pull when he laid eyes on this particular Biscayne.

From Rugby Fields to the Streets: What set Pieter's Biscayne apart wasn't just its sleek lines but its illustrious past – once belonging to the former Springbok Captain, John Smith. Convincing his wife to embrace this classic over a more modern vehicle proved to be Pieter's first challenge, but the allure of the roaring V8 proved too compelling to resist.

Personal Touches and Restoration: With the Biscayne already 75% restored, Pieter wasted no time infusing his personal touch. Out went the million silencers on the exhaust system, restoring the car's growl. The 350cu V8 heart remained strong, but the engine bay underwent Pieter's meticulous attention. Taking pride in his own hands-on approach, he ensured every detail met his high standards.

Air Ride, Jag Suspension, and Bad-Assery: Already equipped with air ride and Jag front suspension, Pieter embraced the bad-ass look it provided. Describing it as a "high comfortable rider," he reserved the ground-hugging stance for parking or showtime. Original Corvette replacement wheels, shipped in from the USA, coupled with Pieter's custom center caps, added the final touch of perfection.

The Aesthetics: Draped in hearse-black paint that complements the lipstick red leather interior, Pieter's Biscayne is a visual masterpiece. The custom steering wheel, B&M shifter, and air ride control panel meld seamlessly, creating an aesthetic symphony that's impossible to ignore.

Tech Sheet:

  • Owner: Pieter Thomas
  • Location: Midvaal, Gauteng
  • Make: Chevy Biscayne
  • Year: 1962
  • Engine: 350cu V8
  • Transmission: 3-Speed Auto
  • Wheels: 255/50/16 Front and Back
  • Brakes: Upgraded Jaguar ventilated disc and calipers (Front), Rear Drums
  • Interior: Red Leather
  • Exterior: Hearse Black
  • Extras: Neatly hidden fitted surround sound system with 2 x 12 subs between boot and rear seat

In the streets of Midvaal, Gauteng, Pieter Thomas has unleashed a beast that not only pays homage to American muscle but stands as a testament to the transformative power of a well-curated classic. His bagged 1962 Chevy Biscayne is more than a head-turner; it's a symphony of roaring elegance, a journey through time where classic meets contemporary in the most harmonious way.