Shaq Just Got Two Custom Chevy Impalas, And One Belongs On Water

Still Making Waves

The Chevrolet Impala is undeniably one of the most important cars in U.S. history, serving as a reminder of how dominant full-size sedans once were. The flashy, big-bodied model was eventually discontinued in 2020 as the industry shifted toward crossovers and SUVs. Still, the Impala remains a familiar sight, as the Bowtie brand sold more than 16.8 million worldwide over its lifetime.

Two 1964 Impala-based builds have been customized for NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal. The work was completed by Effortless Motors, the Riverside, California-based shop that also built O’Neal’s stretched Chevrolet C8 Corvette Z06 and restored the 1996 Toyota Land Cruiser that his former Los Angeles Lakers teammate, Kobe Bryant, drove in high school. Interestingly, one of the creations wasn’t built to cruise the streets, but rather to hit the water.

Putting The “Cruise” In Cruiser

O’Neal piloted the water-bound creation himself, prompting the Effortless Motors team to joke, “First seven-footer to drive a ’64 Impala in the water.” He headed out behind the wheel with three passengers and brought the jet boat up to speed without any obvious issues. The build fulfilled a promise the shop made after O’Neal requested an Impala boat for his birthday.

Full technical details weren’t shared, so it is unclear exactly how the unusual build came together. Based on the footage, however, it appears to use a dedicated boat hull beneath Impala-inspired bodywork rather than an actual road car made waterproof. Regardless, everyone on board appeared to have a great time.

Meanwhile, the road-going 1964 Impala SS was customized to accommodate O’Neal’s 7-foot-1 frame. It was also personalized with illuminated “Diesel Dog Mafia” logos, referencing his longtime Diesel nickname. The cabin features custom captain-style bucket seats and an upgraded sound system, while air-ride suspension complements the nameplate's established place in lowrider culture.

A Bowtie Legend

Together, the two builds feel like a fitting tribute to the Impala and its lasting mark on the American auto industry.

O’Neal said during the delivery that he owns about 77 vehicles, many of which have required modifications to accommodate his stature. He also once recalled cutting a Ferrari in half and using parts from a salvaged example to stretch it, before removing the roof to gain additional headroom.

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