Below: The 1st Sacramento Autorama was held in 1950. It was held at The Capitol Chevrolet Company dealership. The Capitol City Auto Club better known as the “Thunderbolts” had a great number of high quality cars in their club and were instrumental in organizing this first Sacramento Auto Show.
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Contents @ Speed King Magazine All Rights Reserved. Editorial content is the sole property of the Speed King Magazine & Speed King Hot Rods. All information contained in each issue is the sole opinion and comments of the editor. The opinions and comments expressed in this issue do not reflect in any way either written or implied on any of the Advertisers in each issue. No portion of the Speed King Magazine maybe reproduced in any form, without written permission from the publisher. The Speed King Magazine will not be held responsible for any errors in the information submitted or provided.
Contributions / Submissions should be sent via email to speedkinghotrods1@gmail.com or by USPS mail to SPEED KING MAGAZINE
PO Box 254 Thompsons Station TN 37179.
Number1/February2025
Publisher & Editor Jim Brandau
Feature Writers Jim Brandau
Executive Editor Jim Brandau
Art Director-Designer Larry Williams – Williams Graphics
Contributing Artist Scott Fisk Studio 669.net
Senior Feature Writer Emeritus: Ed Woodard
Advertising: Contact Jim Brandau for all advertising cost & availabilities at 615-300-2003 8am 5pm CST or at speedkinghotrods1@gmail.com
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SPEED KING MAGAZINE is published bi-monthly by Speed King Hot Rods, PO Box 254 Thompsons Station TN 37179. Phone 615-300-2003
On The Covers: Front: The 2025 LEGEND CUP Winner 1936 Ford Roadster of Ross & Beth Myers
Back: 2025 RIDLER Winner 1955 Nomad of Tom, Christy, & Josh Bresnahan's
Memorial Day Monday May 29, 2025
“StarterButton”
Let me start this issue with a BIG THANK YOU!!
The response from all of you to our first issue of SPEED KING Magazine was great! We got a lot of emails to the office and comments on the various social media platforms we are on and it was all so very positive. Thank you for those emails and comments, they let us know what we are doing right and what you would like to see in upcoming issues. Keep them coming! We do answer every one as quickly as we can.
New in this issue is “The Artists Corner” feature. Depending on support from the artist community, we plan on continuing it in each issue.
Automotive artists are an important part of the whole “car world”. Yes they draw up all those cool looking t-shirts designs that we gearheads want or buy to wear. More importantly the automotive artists actually bring to life the ideas car builders, either the person in the their home shop or the professional builders have in their heads for the next build for them.
Personally I learned this first hand when taking a metal shaping class by Lazze Jansson’s “Lazze Metal Dreams”. At the very beginning of the class, Lazze asked us all how do we start making something? A lot of good answers came out, but Lazze told us that the part we want to make starts in our mind as a picture. We have to transfer that picture to a sketch and then to the actual part.
Enter the automotive artist! Not all of us (I raise my hand first!) can do the drawing(s) we need to start making the pieces we need. Sometimes it’s a simple drawing for one part to have a machine understand and make for us, or sometimes it’s a complete design of the total build from chassis drawings to a finished interior with
colors and patterns. Whatever it is, those drawings help us create the vehicle of our dreams.
Think about it, every race car (pick your series) is a rolling billboard and all that artwork on the car starts as a concept drawing to present to potential sponsors. Someone behind the scenes is creating that from an idea in someone's mind.
We think its time to highlight these artists and show off some of their work including some pieces you may have never seen before.
May is many things. Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial start of summer fun for us in the USA. The biggest thing in May in many minds is the INDY 500 Race. Held every year on Memorial Day Sunday, it’s the biggest race anywhere. Over 300,00 people at the track. The COCA COLA 600 by NASCAR is the longest race on Memorial day weekend. Add in the few drivers who try to race both races in one day...its a big deal.
To us here at SPEED KING Magazine, May is MEMORIAL DAY. Everything we do each day, all the fun we have, the lives we lead is because of all the brave men and women who have put on a military uniform and helped protect all of us, our way of life and our freedoms that we enjoy al the time. Personally I believe that many people forget about that, and don’t think about those brave people, but everyone should.
More importantly on Memorial Day, we need to remember and thank the over 1 MILLION American Heros who gave their lives while serving in military service to our country. They are the TRUE HERO’S for all of us. They are the ones who let us live our hot rod dreams.
HOT ROD HISTORY
May is the month we recognize our military veterans who paid the ultimate price serving our country.
We want to take a minute to also recognize the many young hot rodders that went off to join the military during World War 2 and serve their country. Lots of them came home and got right back into hot rodding.
More than few started up companies to supply the growing need and demand for “hot rod” parts for all the GI’s who went right back into building cars and racing cars too.
While they served, they didn't lose the fire inside themselves and in most cases it only got stronger knowing they would eventually get back home.
In our opinion we owe these “hot rodders” a lot! Protecting us and starting the hot rod movement all over again after the war. SALUTE!!
Words: Jimmy B / Pics: Off The Web
Wally Parks
Ed Iskenderian
Alex Xydias
Is this the 1st modified “BELLY TANKER” during the war??
An Army Jeep modified by some soldiers during the war
74th O'REILLY AUTO PARTS SACRAMENTO AUTORAMA
ANNOUNCES
AWARD WINNERS
The O’Reilly Auto Parts Sacramento Autorama, one of the world’s longest-running indoor car shows, closed out its 74th annual event on Sunday, May 4, at Cal Expo by recognizing some of the country’s finest custom cars. Overall, the show hosted over 500 world-class custom vehicles and handed out more than 400 individual awards during its closing ceremony.
The show’s prestigious Custom d’Elegance award was presented to Jimmy Hervatin’s 1952 Ford F1 pickup. This incredible build, named “Lit Up,” is meticulously based on a painting of the same name by artist Keith Weesner. Handcrafted by Hervatin himself, the truck was chopped six inches, sectioned and lowered on a brand-new frame. The reshaped body features custom running boards, shaved door handles and a new bed. Powered by a 1954 Oldsmobile 324, the truck is finished in a light blue pearl basecoat, tri-coat pearl white and dark red flames loaded with gold flake. Hervatin received $5,000 from ARP Fasteners.
The West Coast Challenge Car Show Series presented by ARP Fasteners crowned its Grand Champion during the Sacramento Autorama. David Maxwell was presented with the Best of the West award for his futuristic Kindig-It Design-built 1953 Corvette “TwelveAir” Concept, beating out 10 other vehicles that competed in at least three of five select car shows in California, Oregon and Washington. Maxwell received a $12,500 prize, while second- and third-place finishers Cliff Mattis (1957 Chevrolet Convertible) and Carlos Martinez’s (1964 Chevrolet Impala convertible) received $6,500 and $3,500, respectively.
For the second consecutive year the show crowned the World’s Most Beautiful Lowrider. The award went to Eric Wisterman’s “Breaking Bad”-inspired 1962 Chevrolet Impala. The dazzling light-yellow lowrider was built was Wisterman and Jim Basgall, featuring murals depicting scenes and characters from the popular show by Albert Herrera, pinstriping by Alan Signs, a custom interior by Daniel Moreno and hydraulics by Mike Ishiki. Wisterman received a $5,000 prize presented by ARP Fasteners.
Other significant awards included the four historic “Big B Awards.” Jerry Logan won the H.A. Bagdasarian World’s Most Beautiful Custom Award for his immaculate 1952 Chevrolet Fleetline hardtop.
The Sam Barris Memorial Award, named in honor of legendary custom car builder Sam Barris, is selected by members of the Barris family. They chose Maxwell’s “TwelveAir” Corvette as the car featuring the best metalwork, alignment of body panels and paint.
The Joe “Candy Apple Red” Bailon Memorial Award was designed and created by Bailon, one of the nation’s premier custom car designers and builders. This year, the award was presented to Nick Dias’ beautiful blue 1947 Cadillac.
The last of the “Big B Awards,” the Dick Bertolucci Automotive Excellence Award, is given to a vehicle manufactured before 1973 that the family of the late hot rod and custom builder Dick Bertolucci felt exhibited the best craftsmanship in assembly, fit, finish and detail. The Bertolucci family selected Mattis’ “Inspire 57” 1957 Chevrolet Convertible for this year’s trophy.
Watch for full event coverage in an upcoming issue of Speed King Magazine
Gene Winfield, Hot Rod ICON Passes
The automotive world has lost a legend. Gene Winfield passed away on March 4 of this year from cancer after a lifetime filled with customized cars. While he was a legend in the world of hot rodding, some of Winfield’s best-known works are his movie cars, including the 6000 SUX from Robocop and the vehicles from Blade Runner.
Gene’s interest in cars came at a young age, after his brother opened a wrecking yard. In 1951, he would race on the Bonneville Salt Flats for the first time, and open Winfield’s Custom Shop in Modesto, California soon afterward. Winfield’s skill in both metalwork and paint (Gene’s Fade Paint Jobs are famous!) garnered him attention early, and he would graciously spend the latter part of his lengthy career teaching these old-world skills to generations of hot rodders who grew up entranced by his impeccable sense of automotive style.
Many of those younger enthusiasts grew up building model kits that Winfield had helped design for AMT before making the switch from styrene to sheetmetal. When they did, Winfield was all too happy to demonstrate his techniques. He would host frequent metalworking seminars at his shop – two of which are still advertised on his website. From 2013 onward, Winfield had toured the car show circuit plying his craft for a live audience as part of the “Summit Racing Equipment Chop Shop.”
In a tribute on Facebook, customizer Jesse James posted a clip from his Discovery show Monster Garage that featured Winfield. “In 2004 I sure thought I was the king of the world, then I got out worked and schooled by a bunch 70 & 80 year old Legends,” James wrote. “I remember it was close to midnight on Friday night. I just sat on my workbench for a minute and watched them all. I didn’t want the week to end.”
Many who were lucky enough to attend Winfield’s seminars had a similar experience. We hope that Winfield will rest easy knowing that his legacy – and the world of automotive customizing – will be safe in the hands of the hundreds, if not thousands of enthusiasts that he shaped, both literally and figuratively, into the future of hot rodding.
Rest in Peace Gene….your legacy will be carried on by the many you schooled in how to sling lead, chop and shape metal and spray those beautiful candy paint colors
Chattanooga Motorcar Festival Postponed Until Fall 2026
The Chattanooga Motorcar Festival organizers have announced that the 2025 Festival will be postponed until 2026, due to continuing restructuring and expansion of the Chattanooga community, and the festival’s ongoing re-evaluation of the dynamic family-friendly activities it can offer.
The festival’s inaugural event was held in 2019 and has grown to include on-track competition, concerts, displays of significant automobiles, and a world-class Concours d’Elegance attracting entries from around the country, noted event organizers in a press release.
“We are proud of what we have accomplished in just six short years,” said event founder Byron DeFoor. “We’ve been able to raise funds for a number of local charities, including the NeuroScience Innovation Foundation. At the same time, the festival has helped bring awareness to the diversity, beauty and style that this city has to offer.
“As we regroup as an organization and work closely with the city of Chattanooga as it continues to expand, we thank all our sponsors, car collectors, volunteers, judges and the Chattanooga community for all their support since the beginning. We look forward to seeing you and working with you again in 2026, at an even better and bigger event.”
Museum of American Speed To Host 3rd Annual Wheel Hub Live
The Museum of American Speed announced it will host the third annual Wheel Hub Live in Lincoln, Nebraska, May 23–24. Presented by Speedway Motors, PPG and ARP, the event brings together cars previously featured on the pages of “Wheel Hub Magazine” for a weekend of festivities for car lovers. Last year’s event drew over 5,000 specialty vehicles and spectators throughout the weekend.
“It is always our goal to bring the Nation’s best custom cars to the Midwest for the rare opportunity to experience them in one special place. We are excited to welcome participants and spectators back for the third annual event, which is sure to be the best yet,” said Tim Matthews, curator of the Museum of American Speed. “This year we have again curated an inspiring collection of cars, and with our 30,000-square-foot expansion complete, we will be placing those special vehicles throughout the entire museum, giving visitors even more to see.”
“We are excited to continue to bring the pages of ‘Wheel Hub Magazine’ to life at the Museum of American Speed, giving participants and spectators a chance to see some of the greatest cars on earth,” said Stephen Kim, “Wheel Hub Magazine” publisher. “Each year has drawn some of the finest vehicles from across the country, and this year will be no exception.”
WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO?
If you haven't tuned into THE STRANGE MOTION WAY Podcasts yet, you’re missing out on some great stuff! We’re fans of their podcast channel on YOUTUBE, but you can get it wherever you get your podcasts.
Tim and Carrie Strange have been lining up great guests for over a year now, and they have over 57 podcasts ready for you to listen to today! They have a who’s who of the hot rod and custom car world and more. Do yourself a favor and tune in today...you will be glad you did.
The NSRA is still looking for 1935 model year cars or trucks to showcase in the Vintage 35 display presented by Vintage Air at the 56th NSRA Street Rod Nationals in Louisville KY. They have room for 15 cars/trucks in this display. They currently have seven openings. They have Chevrolet's and they have a Plymouth so far, but no Fords!!! If you are interested in having your car or truck in this special display, please contact Will Seibel as soon as possible to reserve your spot.
Here are the key details:
Event Dates: The vehicle must be at the Kentucky Exposition by Noon on Wednesday, July 30th, and it must remain on display until 1:00 PM on Sunday, August 3rd.
Contact Information: For more information or to express your interest, please reach out to Special Event Director Will Seibel at NSRAWILL.S@gmail.com. Don’t miss this chance to feature your classic vehicle in a fantastic setting!
Ed Pink, Legendary Engine Builder, Passes at 94
After Historic Career
The Racing world icon Ed Pink, known for his unmatched expertise in crafting high-performance engines, passed away at the age of 94. His legacy spans more than six decades, with his engines powering some of the fastest and most successful racers in drag racing, NASCAR, IndyCar, and more.
From his early days as a teenager in Southern California, immersed in the hot-rod culture of the 1940s, to his final engine build at the age of 92, Pink’s career was a testament to a relentless passion for performance. His contributions were essential to the growth of drag racing, particularly with his development of the V-8 drag racing motors that revolutionized the sport.
Ed was born in Los Angeles in 1931. Pink’s story began as a curious young mechanic who quickly made a name for himself working in various local shops. His career took off when he returned from military service during the Korean War. Setting up his own engine shop, Pink became known for his precision-built motors that powered many iconic figures in racing, including Don “The Snake” Prudhomme and Don Garlits.
Throughout the 1970s, Pink’s engines became synonymous with speed and power, helping set multiple records in Funny Car racing. His work with Chrysler’s legendary “elephant” 426 Hemi V-8 and the Ford 427 SOHC V-8 solidified his reputation as one of the greatest engine builders of his time. But Pink’s expertise wasn’t limited to drag racing his motors also found success in NASCAR, Can-Am, and even IndyCar.
Even after retiring from active engine building in 2008, Pink remained a legend in the motorsports community. His engines continued to power some of the most formidable machines in the world, and his influence on the industry was unmatched. Known as “The Old Master,” Pink’s quiet demeanor belied the incredible firepower of the motors he created.
Pink’s passion for engineering never faded. He continued to work on projects well into his 90s, demonstrating the unwavering dedication that earned him the respect of racers and mechanics worldwide. His engines are not just parts they are pieces of racing history, built with precision, passion, and an understanding of what makes a car truly fast.
Ed Pink’s passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy will continue to live on in every engine that hums with the spirit of innovation he helped create. The world of motorsports has lost a true legend, but his contributions will forever resonate within the engines that keep racing alive.
Louisville Kentucky, or “LOO-Ville” as its said by many, is known for quite a few cool things. The Kentucky Derby, home to the Louisville Slugger Factory, Kentucky Fried Chicken HQ and lots more!
During the winter its also home to the BLUEGRASS World of Wheels Custom Car Show!
One of the newer shows on the ISCA circuit, its held in January at the Kentucky Fair/Expo Center. Local car enthusiasts banded together to fill the void created when the CARL CASPER Rod & Custom Show ended after 55 years in Louisville, and the Bluegrass World of Wheels Show did the trick.
Words:JimBrandau
Photography:JimBrandau
For 2025 over 400 entries filled the north hall with everything from stock to wild customs on display and competing for ISCA Championship points.
Exhibitors compete also to make the BOURBON SELECT SIX and The BLUEGRASS CUP. For 2025 The Bluegrass Cup and Best in Show was awarded to Rick and Patty Bird's 1931 Chevrolet Coupe, nicknamed "Sho Bird". It was built by Pro Comp Custom and Bruce Harvey.
The real winners were all the visitors to the show, as they go to see some of the top custom cars in the USA on display in “LOO-Ville”.
Make plans to attend the 2026 Bluegrass World of Wheels show on Jan 25th & 26th.
The 62nd Annual Chicago World of Wheels held from March 7–9, 2025, at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Illinois, once again proved why it remains a cornerstone of American car culture. Drawing over 700 vehicles and thousands of enthusiasts, the event was a vibrant celebration of automotive artistry, innovation, and community.
Since its inception in 1962 at Navy Pier, the Chicago World of Wheels has evolved into one of the Midwest’s premier custom car showcases. After moving to McCormick Place and eventually settling in Rosemont in 2010, the event has consistently attracted top-tier builders and collectors. This year’s show featured a dazzling array of hot rods, muscle cars, motorcycles, and trucks, each meticulously crafted to captivate attendees.
Words:JimBrandau
Photography:JimBrandau
Among the standout vehicles was "Grey Madder," a 1955 Chevy Nomad that clinched The RIDLER Award at this years Detroit Autorama, and the "Myers Fenderless ’36," a handcrafted 1936 Ford roadster built by Rad Rides by Troy, that won the 75th “America’s Most Beautiful Roadster Award” (AMBR) after its victory at the Grand National Roadster Show in Pomona California. These awardwinning cars along with many other entries in the show,
exemplified the pinnacle of custom automotive design.
Pop culture enthusiasts were treated to life-sized replicas of the 1966 Batmobile and the Mystery Machine from "Scooby-Doo," alongside Barbie’s iconic pink Cadillac convertible, previously showcased at Walt Disney World. These displays bridged the gap between automotive innovation and cultural nostalgia.
The event's allure was amplified by appearances from notable personalities. WWE Hall of Famer Trish Stratus engaged with fans on Friday evening, while Team 3D (Brother Ray and Devon) made appearances on Saturday. Additionally, Farmtruck and AZN from "Street Outlaws" showcased their new “Funny Farm” truck, delighting attendees with their presence throughout the weekend.
Special attractions included the mesmerizing Megamorph transforming car, which captivated audiences with scheduled performances, and the Chicago Brushmasters' charity art auction, benefiting Ronald McDonald House in Chicago. The auction underscored the event's commitment to philanthropy, having raised over $1.5 million to date.
The Chicago World of Wheels also served as the stage for esteemed competitions. The Legends Cup, a much sought after award, presented by Clean Tools, awarded $10,000 to the top entry based on design excellence. The Jack Trepanier Legacy Award honored vehicles that embodied the spirit and craftsmanship associated with the late Jack Trepanier, with selections made by Troy Trepanier and the Rad Rides by Troy team. These accolades highlighted the dedication and innovation prevalent within the custom car community.
The 62nd Chicago World of Wheels was more than an exhibition; it was a testament to the enduring allure of
automotive innovation and community spirit. By seamlessly blending tradition with modernity, the event offered a comprehensive experience that celebrated the past, present, and future of car culture. As the show concluded, it left attendees inspired and eager for the next chapter in this storied tradition.
The 63rd Annual Chicago World of Wheels show will take place on March 6-8, 2026 at the Donald E Stephens Convention Center, so make plans now to be in attendance. For more info go to www.chicagoworldofwheels.com
One of the more popular features of the Chicago World of Wheels Show is CYCLERAMA.
This show within the show brings out the best that the Midwest and further has to offer in 2 wheeled fun machines. Stock, custom, baggers, choppers and even bicycles were on display. The 2 wheel hot rods were there in every color and then some.
This year the special section of CYCLERAMA was DRAG BIKES. The DRAG BIKE section of CYCLERAMA had some serious horsepower machines on display !!
Words:JimBrandau
Photography:JimBrandau
For 2025 The Chicago World of Wheels SPECIAL DISPLAY Area was dedicated to TRICK TRUCKS!
All kinds of “HOT HAULERS” were on display in the specially designated area of the show, custom, stock, lowered, raised and all of them looking great!
The Chicago World of Wheels did award a BEST TRICK TRUCK AWARD and it went to Kevin Flonder of Mokena IL, with his beautiful 1972 Chevrolet C-10 Truck. Congratulation Kevin!
The Chicago World of Wheels sought after Legend
The journey for the eventual winner making the TOP 20 presented
Pictured here are the 2025 at the Chicago World
Wheels Show is home to the much Legend Cup Award.
winner of the LEGEND CUP starts with presented by Billet Specialties.
The Legend Cup award was created in 2007. The heart of this award is about style and design, and recognizing those who capture and combine that style with quality and craftsmanship. The Legend Cup is based on the following criteria: Style and design, Workmanship, Degree of difficulty, Engineering, Presentation, Theme and Detail. The 2025 Legend Cup, presented by Clean Tools, maker of the Absorber was awarded to Ross and Beth Meyers for their 1936 Ford Roadster.
The Myers’ newest build, bested 5 other contenders, taking home the LEGEND CUP and the $10,000 prize sponsored by Clean Tools, makers of The Absorber. Ross Myers will be immortalized on the Legend Cup perpetual trophy alongside a “who’s who” of hot rodding, including legendary builders like Andy Leach, Bobby Alloway and Dave Kindig.
The gorgeous fenderless 1936 Ford Roadster, built by Rad Rides by Troy, features a scratch-built body with innovative modifications to the car’s shape and proportions. Designed around a blown Y-block engine, the car is mounted on a custom frame, complete with torsion bar suspension, wishbonestyle radius rods and RideTech adjustable shocks. The 1957 McCulloch-supercharged 312 cubic-inch Ford Y-block is backed by a Bowler four-speed transmission and a Winters quick-change rearend.
Finished in a modified Porsche Aventurine Green Metallic from BASF/Glasurit paint and a fully custom and hand-tipped leather interior, further bespoke touches include suicide doors and a hand-built lift-off top.
From all of us here at SPEED KING Magazine we offer our heartfelt congratulations to Ross and Beth Meyers and the team at Rad Rides by Troy for an outstanding win with an awesome roadster
Words:JimBrandau
Photography:JimBrandau
TheArtist’s Corner
Words:JimBrandau
No matter what we want to build or do, it all starts with a picture in our mind. We can see it ,but we need to bring that image and vision to life to move forward. Not all of us can draw or do illustrations, so we need someone who can bring our idea and vision to life in a drawing.
Enter the artist...a graphic artist… a virtuoso with a pen, pencil, marker, brush or in todays world a computer with the right program to DRAW with and create with. We’re not talking someone with an AI program...but rather a talented and gifted person who does the drawings and artwork for us.
In this issue of SPEED KING MAGAZINE w ere in The ARTISTS CORNER, we are featuring a small sample of artwork from Scott Fisk.
Scott Fisk is a Professional Hot Rod Illustrator/Graphic Artist from central Vermont and the founder of Studio 669 and its sister company Spiffebrand®.
Graduating from Butera School of Art '92 with a degree in signage and Graphic Design, Scott has been a full time artist ever since.
His work has been featured in such magazines as RAYDAR (U.K.), Ol' Skool Rodz, Renegade, Car Kulture Deluxe, Rebel Rodz, Hot Rods Illustrated, Rodder's Digest, Hometown Hot Rod, Kustoms Illustrated, Cruisin' Style, Smokin'~SHUTDOWN (Berlin, Germany), Right Coast and Car-TOONS Magazine just to name a few! Scott is also the Author and Illustrator of 3 children's books. He's a (PROUD) father of 3 and resides in Vermont
Make sure to check out his website at www.studio669.net or look him up on Facebook, Instagram or LINKED IN. Check out his online store for some very cool merch and be sure to sign up for his newsletter and get a one time 25% off deal in his store!
DesignsbyScottFisk
The 73rd Annual Detroit Autorama was held this past February 28 to March 2 at Huntington Place (its still COBO Hall to all the old timers!) in downtown Detroit. Once again the Detroit Autorama solidified its reputation as one of the premier custom car showcases in the world. The show drew over 150,000 attendees despite the chilly Michigan weather (what do you expect...its Detroit!)
As it has since the first Autorama, the event celebrates the artistry, innovation, and passion that define the hot rod and custom car community from across the globe.
One of the highlights of the Detroti Autorama is the announcement on Friday Afternoon of the GREAT EIGHT Contenders for the RIDLER Award which is announced on Sunday at the awards program. We will get to that a little further in this feature,
The Autorama is more than the RIDLER award...it is many things. This year the Cavalcade of Customs Area celebrated 30 years of displaying some of the finest custom cars, true customs cars in the center of the hall. 30 classic and beautiful custom cars showed off for everyone to check out.
Autorama Extreme (the official name), AKA “THE BASEMENT” was loaded with traditional hot rods, customs, motorcycles, rockabilly music, retro culture and just a flat out great time.
The TOY SHOW is one of the biggest anywhere! From diecast cars of all sizes to model cars and more, if you couldn't find it here, its probably not available!
The 73rd Detroit Autorama not only celebrated the pinnacle of custom car craftsmanship but also underscored the enduring spirit of the Motor City.
Words:JimBrandau
Photography:JimBrandau
When you talk to any “car guy or gal”, and you simply say “Detroit”, they immediately know you are talking about the Autorama!
If you're talking about the Autorama the next words that come up are “RIDLER” and “The Great 8”. While there are over 700 vehicles on display, the most talked about are the Ridler Contenders aka The GREAT 8!
For 2025, the GREAT 8 finalists showcased a diverse array of craftsmanship and style.
The 2025 RIDLER Contenders include the 1970 Chevrolet Monte Carlo by John and Kelly Ayers. The 1963 Chevrolet Corvette by Dan Patrone. The 1957 Chevrolet by David Bradwell. The 1949 Pontiac Silverstreak by Danny Asher. The 1963 Chevrolet Corvette by Dave and Rhonda Ralph. The 1937 Chevrolet Truck by John Farrow and the 1933 Ford Roadster Pickup by Detroit Metal Shaping
Each vehicle exemplified innovation, attention to detail, and the passion that drives the custom car community.
There can only be one RIDLER AWARD winner. Follow along and see the GREAT 8 and RIDLER Winner!
Words:JimBrandau
Photography:JimBrandau
Dan Patrone 1963 Corvette
John & Kelley Ayers 1970 Monte Carlo
David bradwell 1957 Chevy Roadster
Asher Silverstreak
Dave & Rhonda 1963 Corvette
Rhonda Ralph Corvette
John farrow
1937 Chevrolet
farrow Chevrolet
Detroit metal shaping 1933 ford rpu
Tom, Christy & Josh
1955 Chevy Nomad
Bresnahan
Bresnahan Nomad
The coveted Don Ridler Memorial Award, often regarded as the "Nobel Prize of Hot Rodding," was awarded to "Gray Madder," a meticulously crafted 1955 Chevrolet Nomad.
Owned by Tom and Christy Bresnahan and their son Josh from Pekin, Illinois, the vehicle was brought to life by Jeff Shores and his sons at Southern Comfort Customs in Ramseur, North Carolina. This masterpiece rides on an Art Morrison chassis, boasts a nearly 700horsepower LS3 V-8 engine, and features a custom hydraulic suspension system. The interior showcases Vintage Air A/C, Dakota Digital gauges, and a bespoke steering column, all wrapped in a sleek gray Glasurit finish.
The journey to creating "Gray Madder" was deeply personal. Midway through the decade-long build, both Tom and Christy faced cancer diagnoses. Their resilience and determination not only saw them through recovery but also fueled the completion of their dream car, making the Ridler Award win a testament to their unwavering spirit.
"Gray Madder" emerged victorious from the esteemed "Great Eight," a selection of top-tier custom builds vying for the Ridler Award.
Words:JimBrandau
Photography:JimBrandau
Fueling Emotion, Frame by Frame: Where Every Detail of every shot tells
In the realm of automotive photography, where precision meets passion, Wolf Motorsports Photography is a distinguished name. Founded by Jeff and Heather Wolf, this venture is more than a business it's a culmination of a lifelong dream and an unwavering dedication to the automotive world.
Jeff Wolf, an ardent hot rod enthusiast, once aspired to work for a car magazine. After having his work published unedited, online for a major magazine, he realized he could chart his own path. This epiphany led to the creation of Wolf Motorsports Media, the parent company encompassing Wolf Motorsports Magazine, its YouTube channel, and the photography division. Their mission is clear: to provide high-quality, emotionally resonant automotive content that captures the essence of the journey.
Wolf Motorsports Photography is renowned for its still-life automotive images that tell a story. Their tagline, "Fueling Emotion, Frame by Frame," encapsulates their approach to photography. Each shot is meticulously crafted to highlight the intricate details and the soul of the machine, offering viewers a window into the automotive journey.
The quality of their work has not gone unnoticed. In the fall of 2023, Wolf Motorsports Photography entered The International Chromatic Color Awards and received an "Honorable Mention" in the "Still Life Amateur" category for their piece titled "Big Block Candy." This accolade underscores their commitment to excellence and their ability to stand out in a competitive field.
Their photography portfolio is a testament to their versatility and artistic vision. From vibrant hues to award-winning compositions, the collection showcases a range of automotive subjects captured in stunning detail. For enthusiasts and collectors, these images are available for purchase in various formats, including prints and magnets, through their online store.
Wolf Motorsports Photography exemplifies the fusion of passion, artistry, and dedication. Through their lens, they not only capture the beauty of automobiles but also tell compelling stories that resonate with enthusiasts worldwide. As they continue to expand their offerings and connect with the community, their work remains a testament to the enduring allure of the automotive journey.
Beyond photography, Wolf Motorsports Media is dedicated to engaging with the automotive community. Their online magazine and YouTube channel offer a wealth of content for car enthusiasts, from in-depth articles to dynamic videos. This multi-platform approach ensures that their passion for automobiles reaches a broad audience.
For more information or to explore their portfolio and pick up a piece today visit Wolf Motorsports Photography at www.wolfmotorsportsphotography.com
The 1st Ridler Winner in race trim (top shot) and as it looked when it won the RIDLER Award.
