I don’t know if anyone has thoroughly examined the custom industry to determine which era from the past is most prevalent today. At first glance, it appears that the 1950s, 1960s, and to some extent the 1970s hold significant influence, with many cars from those years being reimagined for display and sale purposes all across America.
However, have you ever pondered which car currently captivates the attention of the custom world and happens to be the oldest?
In 1927, American automaker Ford introduced the Model A as a replacement for the renowned Model T, the vehicle that popularized the concept of assembly line manufacturing and brought forth the era of automobiles.
Similar to its predecessor, the Model A achieved great success, despite only being in production for three years (in comparison, the Model T was manufactured for a staggering 19 years). During this relatively short period, Ford sold over four million units of the Model A.
The story of the Model A would have concluded decades ago if not for a group of custom car creators known as hot rodders. Originating from the bootleggers of the 1920s, who modified their vehicles to evade the law during the Prohibition era, hot rodders hold a particular fondness for the Model A. This Ford model, nearly a century old, remains one of the oldest platforms still utilized in the custom industry today.
However, it is important to note that the term “still in use” is quite flexible, as modified Model A cars often retain very few original components. This is precisely the case with the vehicle before us now, which looks drastically different from the 1929 Ford original. In fact, it is so transformed that one could easily mistake it for an entirely different car.
(Mecum Photo)
The hot rod in question is the creation of Sik Customs, a specialist based in Indiana. Enthusiasts commonly refer to it as the Diablo Rojo, or the Red Devil. The reasons behind this name become immediately apparent upon observing its shape and color – a menacing and sleek metal apparition coated in House of Kolor Candy Apple Red.
Naturally, this vehicle utilizes a custom frame specifically designed for this project. It has been sectioned, chopped, and channeled to accommodate the installation of a Ford steel body, giving the entire build a low profile capable of slipping beneath a door.
Following the typical style of such projects, the Diablo Rojo proudly displays its wheels outside of the body, while the engine remains fully exposed to the elements. It is nestled between the vintage grille, flanked by round headlights, and positioned in front of the cabin.
The engine itself is not exceptionally remarkable, but it certainly deserves recognition. We are referring to a 350ci V8 engine equipped with Keith Black pistons and a Holley Sniper electronic fuel injection system.
The exact power output of the engine remains unclear, but it is managed entirely by a Turbo 350 automatic transmission. This transmission is controlled by a Lokar shifter, discreetly placed in a cockpit that is nearly invisible to the naked eye.
The hot rod’s tabloid format is characterized by its “almost invisible” appearance, which is achieved through its low height and severe chop. Despite its hidden features, such as custom seats and a dashboard taken from a 1959 Chevrolet Impala, the vehicle remains functional with Dakota Digital gauges and power windows.
Mecum’s photo showcases the hot rod’s sliding top, which provides fresh air and easy access. While the pair of doors may be challenging to use, the sliding top serves as a convenient alternative for entry and exit.
Despite its compact design, the Diablo Rojo promises a smooth ride thanks to its meticulous construction. The builders prioritized the mechanical components, including a four-inch drop axle, a Chevy-sourced ten-bolt rear end, a custom 2-link suspension system, and coilovers. The hot rod rides on Divco milk truck wheels wrapped in Coker tires.
This Diablo Rojo hot rod will be up for auction at Mecum in Glendale, Arizona, in early March. The listing does not disclose the expected sale price or any additional details, making it difficult to estimate its value.
Once the auction concludes, we will update this story with the relevant information.
According to the Source autoevolution.com