Cars
In the late ’40s, car manufacturers looked for different ways to modernize their vehicles, and this strategy was evident when the Big Three introduced their ’49 line of passenger cars. For the most part, the pickups stayed the same, but many things changed for the better when the slabside approach went into a more modernized production process. Those looking for a new car said goodbye to fat fenders, slabsided doors and dated suspension that were the norm with previous models. Of those manufacturers, Ford was certainly the leader in this revolutionary new-car building technique, as it produced a stylish ’49 model range to bring in this new production process.
The automotive and motorsports world has lost one of its most influential figures with the passing of Angelo “Junior” Giampetroni. A pioneer, promoter, and passionate builder, Angelo helped shape the hot rodding and drag racing scenes from the postwar boom through the modern era. His impact can be felt not just in Detroit, but across the globe—from gritty speed shops to high-level factory performance programs. Angelo wasn’t just part of the culture—he connected it all together.
We don’t doubt that the DaimlerChrysler design staff fully realized that they found something very special with the Dodge Magnum, especially when the initial versions first rolled from the drawing boards. Its immediate popularity confirmed its place in automotive lore.
If you’re stuffing big power into a classic muscle car, restomod, or street bruiser, don’t let your transmission be the weak link. The SuperMatic 4L75-E REMAN from Chevrolet Performance is the no-nonsense, overbuilt four-speed automatic your LS-powered project has been begging for—and Gandrud Performance Parts has them in stock and moving fast.
Don “Big Daddy” Garlits, in his “Foreword” says, “People of all ages, especially young people just starting out, should read this book for inspiration”
Things have been changing, especially with the types of cars being built and showcased. Instead of industry-backed projects, these are cars put together by everyday enthusiasts. Erick Dickerson is one of those people. You might call him a collector—he owns nearly every model of Honda or Acura from the recent generation. With a garage full of Civics, an S2000, several Integras, and even an NSX, Dickerson may not exactly be your average guy—but his biggest decision each morning isn’t what to wear, it’s what to drive.
Mustang enthusiasts Tony and Tammy Seader of La Salle, Colorado, have always wanted a classic Mustang fastback, and about three years ago Tony found this ’66 Mustang 2+2 sitting on a used car lot.
Nineteen fifty-eight was certainly a year of change for our nation with the formation of NASA and the launching of the United States’ first spacecraft, Explorer I. This was also a year of jet power, as Douglas introduced the DC-8 that year shortly after Boeing’s 707 went into regular service, offering transatlantic flights between New York and Europe. In addition, Elvis began his service in the U.S. Army.
Some of the greatest feelings in life come with a rise in rpm, a dropped clutch and tests of traction stretching the boundaries of our physiology. These are the emotions many of us cherish, and while many factors can evoke such emotions, the single most influential force behind these kinetic kicks is torque (which is then equated into horsepower).
We’ll call Cho’s efforts a modern retro. Much like old heavy-metal bands, classic metal has a timeless appeal, but there’s more—lurking beneath the classic sheetmetal is newfound power that will appeal to both schools of thought; purists will appreciate the clean lines and fastidious restoration, while performance mongers will be delighted to know that the original small block was scrapped in favor of a big block.
