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The 56th Detroit Autorama - Bringing Together The Top Builders In The Country
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Looking like the Blues Brothers... Looking like the Blues Brothers might roll out of the back seat at any moment, Ben Exworthy's '57 Chrysler Imperial was certainly one of the biggest cars in the show. Built at Retro Rods, there were many subtle changes done to the vehicle's appearance, such as the reverse-opening hood, but the 417 Hemi and the Billet Specialties 20-inch wheels looked good, too. The car took Second in the Mild Hardtop '55-59 class, and won an ISCA Street Achievement-Engine Award, too.
Builder Of The YearA Well-Deserved Tribute To Gene Winfieldhe Detroit Autorama's Builder of the Year recognition honors a builder each year who has made a significant impact in the hot rod and custom world. This year, the attention was bestowed upon Gene Winfield with an amazing display of customs, hot rods, and memorabilia. With a career that spans more than 60 years, Gene's endless creativity has indeed influenced generations as the decades have passed. A true visionary in every sense of the word, Gene's career is as deep as it is diverse, combining a passion for the dry lakes and salt at Bonneville with that of innovative painting techniques and designing memorable customs.
After opening his first shop back around 1946, Gene was able to work on custom bodywork as well as satisfy his passion for speed. As the years passed, Gene was a competitive force at the track and on the street with some of the most powerful creations coming straight out of his paint gun. Gene perfected his own personal style with his custom bodywork and fadeaway paint schemes. A signature Winfield paintjob is capable of bringing a true custom fan to his or her knees with its dramatic colors intertwined across a meticulously sculpted body. There was plenty of time for Gene's creativity to grow as the 1960s blossomed into the 1980s, when both TV and film studios sought him out to create some of the most memorable vehicles to come across the silver screen, including ones used in Star Trek, The Man from U.N.C.L.E., Get Smart, Sleeper, Back to the Future II, and, of course, Blade Runner, to name but a few. Today, Gene's career shows no sign of slowing down. You'd be hard-pressed to believe he's 80 years old, as he still puts in 12-hour days, seven days a week, at the shop and travels across the country regularly for personal appearances. Chopping tops, sculpting bodies, and preparing to do more than 200 mph in his new Bonneville roadster proves he's indeed the real deal and a true inspiration for us all. It looks old, but the injected... It looks old, but the injected Hemi in Wally Abela's '32 pickup is one of the new crate engines from Chrysler. Nicknamed Maltshaker, the fenderless and chopped Ford used Firestone Dragster slicks out back for a more racey look. Wally walked away with First Place in the Altered Rod Pickup class.
Autorama Extreme
A Trip Down To The BasementWhen the team that hosts the Autorama made a decision a few years ago to open up the 100,000-square-foot basement for the Autorama Extreme-a place ultra traditionalist and hardcore hot rodders could call their own-little did they know what a hit they would have. Filled to the brim with tons of vintage tin, suede paint, metalflake, and hot V-8s, the basement has turned into the place to be.
The success of the basement show, with its own culture and vibe, gives visitors to the main event an idea of what it might have been like 50 years ago at one of the original events. Descending the escalator from the main floor, showgoers are immediately treated to a full visual onslaught of old-school hot rods and customs, complete with displays that mirror ones of bygone years. There are also plenty of vendors offering everything from vintage-styled clothing to custom metal craft, and live bands performing scorching sets to keep the crowds dazzled throughout the day. Check out the accompanying images, and be sure to dig the story the basement has to tell. Builder J.F. Launier, from... Builder J.F. Launier, from Osoyoos, British Columbia, worked on this phantom '55 Chrysler wagon project with its owner before taking over the project himself and then finishing it. The work netted a coveted Great 8 placement, and consisted of a body that was shortened 8 inches and chopped 2, with a laid-back windshield, a one-off aluminum grille, a 22- and 24-inch Foose wheel combo, and much, much more.
The '08 Pinstriper's Jamboree
They call it DetroitOnce again, legendary kustom culture artist "Yosemite Sam" Radoff put on his annual Pinstriper's Jamboree and charity auction-and this was the second record-breaking year of raising funds for Rescue 1 Fire Safety for Kids. This charity jamboree is held in conjunction with Championship Auto Shows Inc.'s Detroit Autorama, with the likes of some 200 pinstripers layin' lines on anything that didn't move in Cobo Hall.
Pinstripers plied their craft on giant saw blades, clocks, model cars, bicycles, and even a vintage fridge, all in full view of an admiring public. These, along with the ever popular panels, were all auctioned for charity during the several auctions held per day. A $65,000-plus record was set this year, all going to the kids at Rescue 1. Pinstripers who couldn't be there in person sent panels and other decorated objects of desire from all over the U.S., Canada, and even Europe. You're likely to see just about every pinstriping legend you've ever read about, including, among many others, Herb "The Line Doctor" Martinez from California, Fritz Schenck-of Roswell Rod fame-with his lovely wife out of New York, as well as Michigan local Dave Shuten, builder of the Ed Roth Mysterion clone. Built on a SO-CAL chassis,... Built on a SO-CAL chassis, this all-steel Deuce Tudor looked sharp, and it took First Place in the Street Sedan category. The old-timey feel went away when you looked under the hood, as a ZZ4 crate motor backed to a 700-R4 trans lurked beneath. David Cohen, from Naples, FL, owns the sedan. So, come next March, if you have cabin fever and want to do something different and exciting, just remember, "they call it Detroit" and you'll be headin' in the right direction. A word of caution, though: If you're not bidding on objet d'art, better not rub your nose or scratch your head. If you do, auctioneers Richard Westlake and Matt Gallapoo might just take that for a bid, and it's yours.
Detroit CustomsIt's kind of hard to describe Detroit, America's automobile manufacturing capital, to someone who hasn't actually been there. So, if you haven't, you need to go take in next year's Autorama. You'll not only thank us for the suggestion, you'll be back-it's guaranteed. In some sense, Detroit is a world apart, like visiting another country where only car is spoken, or an industrial-themed amusement park, to say the least-and you thought that was only in California or Ohio, right? Detroit simply is what the American automobile's all about.
However, you can't stay in Cobo Hall's great vehicular sampler platter 24 hours every day-even though you might feel the need, as there are so many exceptionally crafted vehicles to explore in detail-so alternative entertainment might be in order; that is, if your dogs aren't too tired from hoofin' the halls of Cobo all day. The Detroit city fathers saw you comin' and have you covered there, as well, with an elevated people mover that loops through the downtown area every few minutes for the low, low price of but 50 cents per head. This Disneyland-like transport stops at several stations along its route, putting you within a block or so of most any place you'd like to go. Example: The aforementioned people mover runs smack dab through Cobo, so when you think you might hear a train rumblin' by every once in a while, you aren't too far off. Some of those columns support an elevated track, not the building's expansive ceiling. So, for a group of friends (names withheld to protect the guilty!) and me, it was up the escalator in the lobby on Friday evening, boarding the train, and off to experience the world famous Greek Town, which has its own station, as well. Featured in the Sept. '61... Featured in the Sept. '61 issue of Hot Rod magazine, the Don Conley T roadster was recently restored by Gary and Elisa Moore, who live in Melbourne, FL. The judges liked it, too, as it won First Place in the Altered T-Roadster division. Now, does this main street with its ancient brick buildings-overshadowed by imposing later structures that grew up around it-converted into restaurants and even a casino remind one of the retro/future-decadent L.A. streets in Ridley Scott's acclaimed Sci-Fi cult flick, Blade Runner, or is it just me? Even though snow was blowin', I was waiting for a police "Spinner" to land and Edward James Olmos' character to step out looking for Harrison Ford's character, Rick Deckard. Well, beyond the obvious differences between reality and what comes from the mind of a movie set designer, did you know legendary customizer Gene Winfield, this year's honored Autorama Builder of the Year, built 25 vehicles for Blade Runner? So, maybe my observation wasn't that far-fetched, after all. The forever-young Mr. Winfield (does this guy have an aging portrait in the attic, or what?) had a dozen of his creations, both historic and current, in two (count 'em, two!) blocks at the show. Very impressive to say the least. So, now you know why all the Winfield-built customs-plus one tribute to Gene, the stunning Voodoo Idol, by "Voodoo Larry" Grobe-came to be in Detroit. You don't see a lot of four-bangers... You don't see a lot of four-bangers equipped with a pair of sidedraft Weber carbs, but that's the way Chuck Gould set up his '26 Ford roadster. Based in Muskegon, MI, Chuck's engine is of the Chevy II variety-not an Iron Duke. Chuck won Second Place in the Altered T-Roadster Pickup class. As for the others, especially those in the block known as the Cavalcade of Customs, which contained nine sterling examples of the genre, there is a process to choose which cars get selected for such perennial placement. To help explain, we went right to Chuck Miller, the man in charge of all things custom at the Autorama, and one who's also a legendary builder of show cars, including the Red Baron and Zingers. This KKOA Hall of Famer knows his customs and custom history, because he's been a part of it all. So, what exactly is the criterion for the Cavalcade? Like most things in life, it's not all cut and dry, but rather multi-layered. As this is Chuck's 12th year on the job, he must be doing something right. He's in the enviable position of being a showman and a museum curator, all at the same time, going to events all year long-everything from local cruises to the Leadsled Spectacular-inviting the best of the best and also always on the lookout for historic pieces. The entry fee is waved when you're invited; however, you're not in competition for awards in this most prestigious of special display areas. There are perks, though, in giving up a possible trophy, like a plaque and varsity jacket for your troubles. If you don't end up in the Cavalcade section, there are many awards given out by Autorama judges in an almost endless number of categories, from the Great 8 to the prestigious Ridler, right down to pedal cars. However, the two that stand out are unsolicited picks from three famous guys. The Alexander Brothers, Mike and Larry, bestow their award to the vehicle that most exemplifies the build style for which they were famous: being well thought out, detailed, and practical examples of the customizer's art. Next up is Yosemite Sam Radoff, who hands out the Sculptural Excellence Award. Unlike the A-Bros., who prefer to build the level of suspense by waiting until the awards ceremony on Sunday evening to bestow their pick, Sam just shows up unannounced and presents an amazing sculpture to his personal pick, whether they're "home" (as in, hangin' around their car) or not. Many a person over the years has returned to their display area to find they're Sam's pick, a thrill they don't easily forget.  One of the early Stone, Woods...  One of the early Stone, Woods & Cook Willys gassers was recently restored, and current owner Mike Wales received the show's Preservation Award for his efforts. First built in 1961, the coupe competed in the B/GS class, where it terrorized many a dragstrip. Though now restored, the car still retains its original Ed Martinez interior.  Remember the Ice Truck show...  Remember the Ice Truck show car from the early 1970s? Straight off the Aug. '70 cover of Rod & Custom magazine, it uses 6.25/17.00-16 Firestone Indy tires for an ultra-wide look. Dave Shuten recently restored this vehicle originally built by Dan Woods.  You'll be seeing more of Stan...  You'll be seeing more of Stan Fox's '40 Ford convertible, called Vision, in a future issue of STREET RODDER, but showgoers got a sneak peek at the latest creation from Troy Trepanier's Rad Rides shop.  Orland Park, IL, resident...  Orland Park, IL, resident Harry Willett and his '32 Willett Special was another Great 8 finalist. Lots of thought went into this concept, which incorporated design elements from vintage road racers in both the cockpit and exterior pieces.  Gene Elpers from Evansville,...  Gene Elpers from Evansville, IN, had LaVine Restorations radically rework a lowly '46 Chevy truck into a Great 8 finalist for the show's Ridler award. The all-metal pickup featured a 6.1L Hemi, topped with Momar injection, and a spectacular undercarriage to go along with the subtle two-tone green paint scheme.  Jason Grimes runs The Garage...  Jason Grimes runs The Garage in Lebanon Junction, KY, and turns out some fine-looking hot rods, including this '31 Ford truck, set up with skinny wires. Among its impressed onlookers was STREET RODDER Editor Brian Brennan, who awarded Jason the magazine's Driven Award, sponsored by Lokar Inc. Jason also took second in the Altered Rod Pickup class.  Gerry Kerna's '41 Willys was...  Gerry Kerna's '41 Willys was really wild. Entered in the Street Machine Custom Rod '35-48 class, Gerry's coupe is powered by a GM Ram Jet 502 and rolls on 20x7 and 22x10 Billet Specialties wheels. Gerry won First in his class for his efforts.  Denise Sheldon, from Livonia,...  Denise Sheldon, from Livonia, MI, brought her '47 Oldsmobile to the show, entering it in the Custom Rod Convertible, '35-48 Semi class, in which she took home the First Place award.  One thing is for sure; even...  One thing is for sure; even without the coronation the Ridler award brings, this ain't your father's Rambler wagon!  To say Gene was busy meeting...  To say Gene was busy meeting and greeting visitors all weekend long was an understatement. One of the nicest guys you'll ever meet, Gene is always available to spend time with his fans.  Visitors to the Detroit Autorama...  Visitors to the Detroit Autorama were treated to a decadent grouping of a dozen cars, as well as numerous historical storyboards honoring Gene Winfield as the Builder of the Year.  Looking as fresh as the day...  Looking as fresh as the day it was built in 1978, the Tail Dragger '41 Ford had the honor of being created into a Hot Wheels car 10 years later. Bathed in Purple Rhapsody gloss, it was hammered 6 inches in front and 7 inches in the rear, channeled 4 inches, had its wheelwells radiused, and was completely shaved, nosed, and decked. Harold Ehle currently owns the '41.  Larry Grobe's Voodoo Idol...  Larry Grobe's Voodoo Idol tribute '46 Ford coupe was inspired by a '47 Ford that Gene had built. A dramatic chop, combined with a shortened rear roof, slanted B-pillars, sectioned and widened body, and extended rear quarters, makes this Envy Green custom standout in any crowd.  Gene's goal of putting a modern...  Gene's goal of putting a modern vibe on a '60s-era custom came true for Pete Kroeker with this just-completed '60 Chevy, named California Dreaming. With the tops of the fenders molded into the forward-flip hood, rear quarters joined to the trunk lid, one-off side trim air ducts, and signature fade-job, this is one car with endless custom touches.  Originally built for the TV...  Originally built for the TV show Private Eye in 1987, this memorable '50 Merc, now owned by Cowboy, is coated with alluring House of Kolor Deep Black Cherry. Plenty of attitude comes from a 5-inch chop, molded rear skirts, '53 Buick side trim, a '55 DeSoto grille, and '59 Cadillac taillights.  Simply stated, the Got It...  Simply stated, the Got It '51 Merc will leave you in awe with its effervescent signature fade-job that features House of Kolor Blue fading into white on top. A perfectly proportioned chop and all the right custom touches brings plenty of compliments to Ted D' Orazi anytime it's shown.  Fifteen years went into creating...  Fifteen years went into creating the California Gold '49 Merc, a tribute to a car Gene built back in 1957. Owner Bill Wolfe's 'sled features a classic 3-inch chop, V-butted glass, '54 Buick headlights, a '54 Studebaker grille opening, and custom side pipes, which all accent plenty of custom-blended gold and bronze accented by black scallops.  Loaded with sex appeal, the...  Loaded with sex appeal, the Golden Sunrise '58 Chrysler New Yorker, built in 1979 for original owner Richard Zocchi, showcases many custom touches, including a bitchin' chop, extended fenders with '72 Olds headlights, and raised and extended rear tail fins. Current owner Bob Fryz is the lucky holder of the keys now.  The Bonneville roadster is...  The Bonneville roadster is Gene's latest effort to compete and get into the 200 MPH Club. It features a Brookville body on a custom chassis, a 9-inch extended nose, a rear suspension designed by Kent Fuller, and an extended front suspension designed by Lil' John Buttera. Plenty of power is on tap with a 368-cube Ford Windsor mill built by Robert Yates Racing.  Imagine the impression the...  Imagine the impression the futuristic Reactor had on those who saw it when it debuted back in 1966. Featuring a front-wheel-drive Citroen chassis and Corvair power, it has a fully independent air/oil suspension, electric opening hood, doors, and roof, not to mention a handmade aluminum body.  Bob Fryz always loved Gene's...  Bob Fryz always loved Gene's masterpiece, the Jade Idol, so he had Gene build him a tribute car echoing some of the impression of the original. Just finished, the '57 Ford was gleaming in a combination fade of House of Kolor Sherwood Pearl and Organic Green, complemented by a '58 Ford roof, quad headlights, a custom bumper, and deeply frenched '63 Ford taillights.  Gene blew the lid off the...  Gene blew the lid off the custom world back in 1993 when he debuted Maybelline, a '61 Cadillac custom with its blended Ice Cream body covered with plenty of Butterscotch topping. Its 4-inch chop combined with a '59/60 Caddy roof, pop-up mirrors, molded and exaggerated rear fins, and Caddy Northstar V-8 was enough for Larry Tarantolo to take the reigns.  Originally built for Bob Larivee...  Originally built for Bob Larivee Sr. back in 1963, the Strip Star has a handmade asymmetrical aluminum body and power from a 427-inch '63 Ford V-8. It was readied for the show circuit after laying down a pass at Bonneville of 127 mph.  Wild Bill Shrewsbury's Berry...  Wild Bill Shrewsbury's Berry Wagon was a total blast from the past. Now owned by Larry and Kim Garland, this was the version that did time at Knott's Berry Farm while the real wheelstander tore up dragstrips from coast to coast in the late 1970s. Both were painted by the legendary Ed "Big Daddy" Roth.  Aaron Grote's Atomic Punk...  Aaron Grote's Atomic Punk was one of the most anticipated bubbletops to debut in a long time. It was all steel and loosely based on a '59 Plymouth body with a galaxy-load of show-rod goodies that would leave the Martian Empire in awe.
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