Miko’s ‘53 Chevy Bel Air
No stranger to car culture, Michael “Miko” Marguez
has a passion and undying love for classic cars.
Born and raised in the tough streets of East Oakland, Miko’s pursuance has enabled him to share and teach this respected way of life. He is a father of five, grandfather of three and valued friend to countless.
Over the years Miko has bestowed us with several immaculate Chevy Impalas including a few ‘63s, one being a Super SportConvertible, a ‘64 Impala, a ‘53 five window Chevy truck, to
the newest ‘50 Chevy Deluxe hard body Woody Wagon, and magazine featured, ‘52 Chevy Deluxe. Many of these classics won Miko multiple awards and trophies along the way.
In 1983, Miko stumbled across a ‘53 Chevy Bel Air, which was nothing more than a bucket with some TLC needed. With the help of Miko’s brother Dale and friend Danny, just about every
modification was done in a residential garage. This also included paint, bodywork and glass engraving.
Some modifications on this classic include a 235 inline 6 cylinder engine from a ‘54 Chevy with a split manifold, double whammy hydraulic pump setup, 6” chrome cylinders with 5 switches
to control the four corners. There are shaved door and trunk handles, molded firewall, lots of gold and chrome including the gravel guards, Continental kit and the under carriage. Golden
brown tuck and roll vinyl with 1” pleats complete the interior. The dash matches the House of Kolor Spanish Candy Gold with flakes that can be found on the roof, engine compartment and fender trim. And yes, the paint and ghost flames were sprayed by Miko himself, a man of task and style.
In 1994, Miko shared his inspiration with Sunday Slacker’s founder, Gabe Garcia. Miko’s guidance played a key role in Gabe’s direction.
“I was 16 years old when I met Miko. I was in high school saving and working hard to get into college. When no one else would help me finish my truck since I didn’t have extra money to spend, Miko took on the task. Against the advice of his peers, he worked with me, taught me all the old school knowledge he knew and finished painting my truck just a few days before my first day of college. He said he was proud of me for getting a scholarship and going to school.” – Gabe Garcia
Today Miko is still working on cars, sharing stories of his life and devoting his time to help others and his fellow Classic Oldies Car Club members. We could only be so lucky to have more men and friends like Miko.
Photos by Pongky at f/2.8 photography