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Aurabella: The 2025 Al Slonaker Memorial Award Winner
Andy Leach and Cal Auto Creations' Latest Triumph
Author
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Jamie Dent
Photography by Scott Killeen and Courtesy of Kahn Media
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The Ultimate Pontiac Transformation
Bill and Angela Barbato had a vision—a 1933 Pontiac Model 601 sedan—but finding one worth building wasn’t easy. Once they got their hands on a solid starting point, Andy and his team went to work, cutting, shaping, and refining every single inch. To drive the point home, they even brought a stock ’33 Pontiac to sit next to Aurabella on display, and let’s just say, the differences are mind-blowing.
Big Power Under the Hood
This beauty isn’t just for show. Underneath that flawless exterior sits a legit Pontiac engine—because of course it does! The 400-cube V8 is decked out with Edelbrock cylinder heads, throttle body fuel injection, custom valve covers, and a full custom exhaust. Oh, and did we mention the 8-71 supercharger? Because yeah, it’s got one, and somehow, it tucks neatly under the hood without ruining the car’s ultra-clean lines. The whole setup is backed by a 4L80E transmission, making sure this thing runs as good as it looks.
Chopped, Smoothed, and Perfected
The body mods on Aurabella are next-level. The top got chopped and tilted forward, the hood and front end were narrowed, and the grille was cleaned up and laid back an inch. Out back, the rear fenders were raised and reshaped, and custom running boards tie everything together. Custom hood vents add another layer of detail, but the real kicker? The undercarriage is just as clean and polished as the exterior.
Then there’s the paint—this thing GLOWS under the lights. The color, mixed up by PAINTHOUSE of Cypress, Texas using the Sherwin-Williams Ultra 7K solvent basecoat system, is a custom blend called “Aurabella Gold” (or, if you prefer, “Brasshole” for a little extra attitude). Either way, it’s a deep, rich bronze with just the right amount of pearl to shimmer like a jewel.
Inside: Pure Class Meets Hot Rod Cool
The interior? Absolute perfection. The custom-made leather panels, Art Deco-style gauges, hand-machined steering wheel, and one-off headliner, door panels, and trim all bring a refined, period-correct-but-better vibe. It’s a killer blend of vintage style and modern execution, with craftsmanship that’s off the charts.
A True Team Effort
This build wasn’t just Andy Leach’s vision—it was a full-on collaboration. Design work by Eric Black, upholstery by Cato’s Custom Upholstery, Metalcraft Restorations lending a hand in the booth, and nickel plating perfection from Advanced Plating all came together to make this Pontiac a legit showstopper.
Like their Slonaker-winning Buick Invicta from two years ago, this Pontiac proves that Cal Auto Creations is playing at the highest level. Aurabella is a masterclass in custom coachbuilding, and now, it’s got the Al Slonaker Award to prove it. Absolute legend status.