I must be developing an appreciating eye for cars that are totally different from what I’m used to. I say this, because the first custom creation I decided to spotlight on entering the Pacifico Yokohama exhibition hall for the 2015 Mooneyes Hot Rod & Custom Show was this 1929 Ford Model A Sedan based rod.
Despite being lined up alongside some of the best builds in the country, it instantly stood out to me. Aired out, it looked vicious and full of little character-adding touches that gave it so much presence.
Little did I know at the time, but the following day it took home the coveted Best Rat Rod award.
This chopped, notched-frame Ford was built by respected custom shop ‘Arts Body’ in Nagoya, who decided to do something a little different with this project.
I especially like the use of massive Firestone cheater slicks mounted on deep dish rims at the rear.
And how about this for a cool detail; the fabric roof cover that latches onto the main wooden frame has a vintage US license plate pattern on the underside to create a really interesting headliner.
In staying true to the rat nature, inside is minimalistic to say the least; everything is exposed and there’s a big hole for you to get nicely acquainted with the transmission.
This shot is taken through the open door, but it’s pretty much the same angle the driver has looking out of the windscreen at the three stacks atop the engine.
And to finish off a creation like this, there’s nothing like a few period correct touches to give it some authenticity. Congrats to the Arts Body guys!
Dino Dalle Carbonare
Instagram: speedhunters_dino
dino@speedhunters.com
2015 Mooneyes Hot Rod & Custom Show coverage on Speedhunters
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