It can be said that anyone who attended this years Grand National Hot Rod Show would get more than they paid for. This is the big daddy for the hot rod crowd. This year was no exception. There are a total of 9 exposition halls and as such we could not come close to shooting each of the classes on display. So we chose to target the most unexpected or unusual examples on display. 

Hot Rod shows are all to often donminated by the same 2 or 3 model types and so there was a large number of traditional examples. We found that hidden in the ocean of typical machines there were some very extraordinary samples of paint, body and machine statements. So here is our gallery of what caught our eye.

Also what we like about this show is that there is a strong showing of motorcycle displays of every shape and size...as long as it's Harley inspired choppers. We did find a few English cafe racer displays. But no matter what you find these bikes will engage your interest.  

One of most original and interesting groups of cars on display were, the "Flat Black" low rider custom cars. The best was this Caddy, looked like a 49. It had flat black with gloss black flames. Then a pin stripping. It made for a very sinester but powerful statement. There were several flat black low rider customs. Also we found a new class of street rods, that we call the "rust-o-mods". Why because they had no paint or interiors. Not even the seats had cushions. Very raw.

Then we step off in the direction of truly rare and exotic coachwork. Below was see "Toom" bodied Jaguar XK140! Now if that doesn't just peak your interest then, hold on to you head.

As we see next, this specatator stood reading the information provided on what had to be the crowning example of super sport concept. Can you tell what he is looking at?  

It is a Bugatti 57/59 and it is probably the one and only time you will ever see a Bugatti at the Grand National. Needless to say it took home a trophy. 

Next up we have a dual shot of the Best of Show winner by Chip Foose. This project was a real hit with the crowd. But it is a one only project. Foose has a real talent for blending the past and present. I am sure we will see this car again at the Art Center Show in August.

Our next pick falls into the quirky and strange class. It's called the Beatnik. It has a full canopy bubble and all the hydraulics to go with a "Jetson's" styling twist. Built with a massive motor it was a real head turner. The detailing was excellent.

Anyway as you can see there is a lot of eye candy for all you custom and gear heads. So enjoy. Remember all gallery images are for you personal enjoyment. Any reproduction without written permission is strictly forbidden. All copyrights are reserved in any medium, L.Marvin 2006