Issue 13
Owner Beto Luna
Photo Richard Palos
Model Gady Madrano
Text Giselle
El Maldito ‘39

Beto Luna, the founder of Viejitos Car Club LA Empire, considers his ’39 Chevy Master Deluxe a work of art. Considering that his initial investment of $900 could have turned a $54,000 profit, he may not be far from the truth. Though he has owned the Chevy since 1985, it’s the last year and a half that as been witness to his modifications and upgrades.

The car was lowered, a camaro rear end motor was installed and he c-framed the chassis. The car is currently painted candy and dark green. Lobo Vasquez of Talpitas Auto Body is responsible for this color. Prior to this, it was enamel black and candy green; the car has gone through three different color schemes in total. Victor Sepulvera of Discount Mufflers did the murals. There are 13” chrome radial 520 tires bought in an East LA tire shop known as LA Wires. The car has old school hydraulics that Beto bought from George Luna, his brother; Pepe Aguirre installed them. All the chrome on the car was redone by Apolonio Chrome Shop in Ontario.

Beto’s Maldito has no stereo as the original is not working. But the customized upholstery done by Lalo of Discount Upholstery more than makes up for the loss of sound. Comfort is its own reward on this car. Under the hood you will find a 1969, 350-corvette engine. What else would a masterpiece need?

When Beto started rebuilding his car in an effort to get away from gang activities, having his car exhibited in a museum was probably not something that passed through his head. Imagine his excitement when the car ended up in the Peterson Museum in LA. This in turn caught the attention of some Japanese individuals who made an offer for the car, which Beto ultimately refused.

El Maldito ’39 has won for its murals and for best car; both events occurring in Brawley, CA. Although when originally bought, Beto drove the car everyday, now it is driven only on special occasions. Overall Beto has had a good experience with this car. He would like to thank his brother George for helping him restore the car and SLM for taking the time to introduce this art piece to the low riding community.