Debuted at the '68 Detroit...
Debuted at the '68 Detroit Autorama, the Fire Truck's outstanding creativity and attention to detail was enough to earn it the coveted Ridler Award. Coated in Fire Engine Red Candy, its C-cab-styled body and blown Ford V-8 it made it a perfect candidate for MPC to launch it as a kit model.
The creative relationship Larivee had launched with Chuck grew as the years passed with the creation of a number of other commissioned wild rods, including the Buggs Buggy, Crater Raider, Probe 1, RTS 'Cuda, and the Harry Bradley-designed Sonic 'Cuda. One of the wildest designs brought to life were MPC model's Zingers, which were actually half-scale show cars on steroids filled with full-sized supercharged V-8s. During this time American Motors, Dodge, Hurst Performance, and Plymouth also called on Chuck's talents to create numerous custom-designed cars for their companies. In 1999 Chuck sold Styline Customs while moving toward semi-retirement. Soon after he opened Chuck Miller Studios, a smaller combination shop and museum at his residence in New Boston where he continues to craft amazing rolling sculptures to this day. Never one to slow down, we can hardly wait to see what Chuck unveils next.
Another Harry Bradley design...
Another Harry Bradley design brought to life by Chuck was the inspiring '71 Corvette Sportwagon, one of which appeared on the cover of Car and Driver magazine in July 1972.
It may be extremely subtle...
It may be extremely subtle when compared to the show rods but Chuck's orange cream '47 Ford woodie wagon is just as well detailed as the rest.
One of the many Zingers commissioned...
One of the many Zingers commissioned by Bob Larivee Sr. included this replica of the ISCA's Show Promotions truck and trailer, which hauled their road show across country.
You have to appreciate the...
You have to appreciate the whimsy that went into the build of the world's smallest taxi. Chuck came across the BMW Isetta needing restoration and thought it would be it as cool to build as a people mover. We couldn't agree more.
Regardless of whether you...
Regardless of whether you grew up in the '70s or today, it's easy to dig the Zingers. These sign board replicas of the cars were auctioned off during the weekend to benefit Leader Dogs for the Blind.
Round2 Models and MPC were...
Round2 Models and MPC were excited to showcase the re-release of the Zingers for a whole new generation of modelers to enjoy. Nothing gets your adrenaline rushing better than the excitement associated with these robust little monsters.