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KUSTOMRAMA NEWSLETTER NO. 201

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Welcome to the December edition of the Kustomrama Newsletter, which we’re excited to call the Japan Special! While the Christmas madness was ramping up back home, I had the incredible opportunity to jet off to Tokyo with two good friends from the Coupe Devils car club. We finally made it to the Yokohama Hot Rod Custom Show show, a dream nearly 15 years in the making. It was my first trip to Asia, and what an adventure it turned out to be!

The Mooneyes Yokohama show did not disappoint. It was thrilling to meet some of our Japanese friends and followers in person, exchanging stories and sharing in the universal language of hot rod and custom car passion. The creativity and craftsmanship on display were nothing short of inspiring, showcasing a blend of classic American style with a unique Japanese twist that captivated us all.

Back now and hustling to catch up on the lost week, I’m eager to share some snapshots from the show and our adventure. This newsletter is packed with highlights and standout builds that caught our eye, bringing a piece of Japan's vibrant car culture right to your inbox.

From the incredible customs and standout hot rods to the bustling energy of Tokyo itself, this trip was a reminder of how our passion connects us globally. It's these experiences that fuel our enthusiasm and inspire our projects, and I’m thrilled to bring a slice of that inspiration back to share with all of you.

So, sit back, enjoy the ride through our Japan Special, and maybe find a little inspiration for your own garage projects this winter.

Stepping into history at Mooneyes Area-1 in Honmoku, Yokohama, the birthplace of a legend. Moon's influence in Japan began in 1968 when Dean Moon was contacted by Don Nichols to build engines for Nissan’s R381 Grand-Prix Cars. The victorious engines at that year's race solidified Moon's fame across Japan. Despite a decline in the early '70s, Moon’s legacy was rejuvenated when Shige Suganuma, a longtime fan, took the helm in the 1980s, importing and reviving the Moon brand with dedication. Shige eventually ended up buying Moon, continuing to run the business both in California and Japan. This iconic shop opened in 1991, making it a mecca for enthusiasts of classic American car culture in the heart of Japan. Saturday morning, the day before the show, we ordered an Uber from Tokyo to Yokohama, starting the day at the historic Mooneyes Area-1.

We were greeted by the iconic Moon Buggy at the shop. Decked out in Gold Metalflake with its pinstriping, unique contours, and details, this vehicle represents the fusion of classic style and modern creativity, perfectly framed by the 'Merry Christmas' cheer of the Mooneyes shop.

Two floors brimming with nostalgia, from hot rod parts to Rat Fink memorabilia, this shop captures the essence of custom car culture. Each corner and shelf is a testament to a legacy that spans decades and continents. Sadly, we missed dining at the bustling Mooneyes Cafe this time—definitely on our list for the next Japan adventure!

Cragar S/S, anyone?

The Moon Garage in front of Mooneyes Area-1 is the home of Wildman Ishii, a master of pinstriping. Step inside, and you're also treated to an up-close look at race cars and custom motorcycles, each a testament to Mooneyes' commitment to speed and style.

A beautiful mild Buick custom that was parked inside the Moon Garage.

Basking in the golden afternoon sun outside the Moon Garage. This moment of the calm before the storm was briefly interrupted when our friend LeBeef from Sweden tipped us off about the new Saturday set-up day passes for the Yokohama Hot Rod Custom Show—too good to miss! Rushing from this serene scene to the heart of the action, we caught an Uber to join the early excitement at the exhibition hall, ready to soak in more of the vibrant custom culture Japan has to offer.

BOOM! Entering the exhibition hall, we were immediately struck by the stunning presence of Coby Gewertz's 1934 Ford 5-Window Coupe, "St. Christopher." This iconic hot rod, shipped all the way from the US, showcases exquisite craftsmanship and a unique color scheme that turns heads. It was a personal thrill to finally witness this masterpiece in person and capture its beauty on camera. A highlight of the Yokohama Hot Rod Custom Show.

The calm before the storm at the show. Captured here is a member of the Strongers car club meticulously preparing his striking 1959 Chevy wagon for the exhibition. The early access during the setup day allowed us to appreciate the quiet dedication and detailed work behind the scenes—every polish and adjustment brought out the best in these classic beauties before the halls filled with eager enthusiasts.

Catching the pulse of a new trend: These sleek Camaro lowriders captivated the crowd at the Yokohama Hot Rod Custom Show, sparking conversations and admiration among attendees. The excitement around these cars suggests we might be witnessing the rise of a fresh, new chapter in the lowrider and custom car scene.

No rest for the wicked! The night was young as we left the exhibition hall and headed to Grind Land to celebrate 20 years of Deadend Worldwide.

A blast from the past greeted us at the party entrance—Seiji Namai's 1940 Lincoln Zephyr, a masterpiece I've admired for nearly two decades. Under the night sky, this gleaming iconic custom stood as a testament to the unique Japanese style and craftsmanship.

Under the glow of festive lights and amidst the buzz of the crowd, classic cars and enthusiasts gathered in camaraderie.

The evening was far from over after a quick round of beers, cheers, and sushi. Energized, we hit the road for the Dice Magazine Party. This stunning bomb, captured in the vibrant night, perfectly echoed our spirits—sleek, polished, and ready for more adventures under the starlit Yokohama sky.

What a night in Yokohama! Dean Micetich of DicE Magazine ignited the stage at the DicE Party, delivering an electrifying performance alongside two other fabulous bands. The music, the crowd, the energy—it was all a perfect blend, creating an unforgettable night of rock and roll, revving up everyone's spirits!

Rise and shine! On our way into the show on Sunday, we spotted this cool 1964 Chevrolet Impala lowrider. Its distinctive square headlights and sleek lines stood out boldly against the backdrop of the city’s modern architecture, a beautiful fusion of classic American design and urban Japanese landscape.

Two Face—this captivating 1959 Chevrolet Impala stole the spotlight with its Bill Hines-inspired rear-end treatment, turning heads at the show. Decked in a striking lilac shade and showcased on a white angel hair display, this custom beauty not only rocked my boat but was also one of my favorite sights at the event. A true testament to the artistry and vision in custom car design!

We spoke briefly with the builder and gave him a matching decal.

Flames galore! This paint job can heat up even the coldest December days. The vivid flame job on this beauty isn’t just a paint scheme—it’s a statement!

There were also some nice modified Japanese cars on the show, such as this slammed Toyota minitruck.

Keep it simple is not a term used by most Japanese car builders. The Yokohama Hot Rod Custom Show is an ocean of bold paint jobs and creative modifications. Can you dig it?

Amidst the chrome and glitter at the show, this motorcycle stood out as a dazzling gem. With its intricate detailing and gold accents, this bike not only showcases exceptional craftsmanship but also reflects the practicality and popularity of motorcycles in Tokyo and Japan's compact urban landscape. Perfectly suited for the narrow streets and small living spaces, these bikes are not just about utility but are true works of art, capturing the spirit and style of their owners.

St. Christopher and its creator! It's always a pleasure to see Coby at car shows, where his passion and ingenuity shine as brightly as the chrome on his projects. Keep up the great work!

Magic Powder, anyone? A psychedelic vision on wheels! This 1970 Dodge Challenger, spotted en route to the show, dazzled us with its vibrant colors and elaborate artwork. Each detail of its design, from the flamboyant paint job to the side pipes, screamed excitement and style. Seeing this wild bird chase down the freeway was the perfect teaser for the thrilling show that awaited us.

As the curtains closed on the 32nd Yokohama Hot Rod Custom Show, I captured this spirited farewell shot. With over 2000 new photos in my camera and countless memories, this image of vibrant celebration against the iconic backdrop marks the perfect end to an unforgettable journey.

As we bid farewell to the Yokohama Hot Rod Custom Show, here's one last glance at the vibrant car culture that lights up this city. This classic Chevrolet, captured against the backdrop of Yokohama's illuminated skyline, symbolizes the timeless allure and spirited adventure that awaits every visitor. Japan's blend of warm hospitality, breathtaking cars, and urban enchantment is unforgettable. If you haven't yet experienced this phenomenal show, make plans to visit; it's truly a world-class spectacle.

Happy holidays, and here’s to many more adventures together!

Catch you next time,
Sondre Kvipt
Kustomrama Editor

Looking for Info: Pat McNamara's 1928 Ford Model A Pick Up

Attention hot rod fans and history lovers: Discover the story of Pat McNamara’s 1928 Ford Model A Pick-Up, a true gem from the golden era of hot rodding. Originally crafted by McNamara in the late 1940s, this unique vehicle epitomizes the spirit of innovation that defined Southern California’s early hot rod movement.

Known as a master of speed and style, McNamara utilized his access to cutting-edge technology to transform a humble truck into a Bonneville competitor. Not just any hot rod, this Ford Pick-Up raced across the salt flats, supposedly making its mark alongside the famed Tornado Streamliner.

After changing hands and resting for years, this historic vehicle has found a new custodian in Greg Stokes of GMS Hot Rods, New Zealand. Currently located in Bakersfield, California, efforts are underway to revive its legacy. Retaining original elements like its flathead V8 with four carburetors and a Culver City Halibrand quick-change rear end, the truck is a time capsule waiting to be explored.

Do you have any information, stories, or photos related to this iconic Model A or Pat McNamara’s other creations? Greg Stokes and the hot rod community need your help to piece together its past and honor McNamara's innovative spirit. Click here to head on over to Kustomrama to learn more about this project and share any leads or memories you might have. Help preserve the legacy of a true hot rod pioneer.

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Lost Swedish Custom: Christer Gref's 1956 Ford Fairlane

Thanks to Kustomrama Contributor Mats Wallander, we are excited to share the story of Christer Gref's 1956 Ford Fairlane with you all, a moderate and balanced custom that stood out during an era known for bolder, sometimes crude customizations. Captured in a photograph by Björn Ramsten in 1965 near Djurgården Island, Stockholm, this Fairlane reflects the elegance of the distinct Swedish custom car culture. Since its last recorded sale in 1967, the whereabouts and fate of this mild custom remain unknown. If you possess any information or memories related to this vehicle, please get in touch with us to help document its history and contribute to preserving its legacy. Click here for the full story.​

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Introducing the Limited Edition Kraze Painter

In November, we released a Limited Edition 2024 Kraze Painter Design! This exclusive piece by the legendary Von Franco is a true collector’s item and the perfect gift for any Kustom Kulture fan. Click here to check it out and order yours today.​

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The Buddha Buggy

This month, we're excited to feature an image straight from the 1960s custom car scene: Tats Gotanda’s legendary 1959 Chevrolet Impala, better known as the "Buddha Buggy." Captured at an indoor car show by Mike Kosulandich, this photo comes from Mike’s incredible collection, which is currently being archived on Kustomrama. Mike was present for much of the car’s evolution and has promised to share more insights about the constant tweaks and upgrades Tats and Bill Hines made to this showstopper!

Built by Bill Hines, the Buddha Buggy is a masterpiece of subtle yet striking modifications. From the sculpted scoops along the rear quarter panels and headlight sides to the split bumpers and Imperial grille, every detail was meticulously executed. Perforated metal gave the scoops a finished look, while Candy Blue paint over a pearl white base created its unforgettable hue.

As one of the earliest examples of a hydraulic lift system, Tats’ Impala could raise and lower by 8 ½ inches, a groundbreaking feature inspired by Ron Aguirre’s X-Sonic Corvette. Inside, Eddie Martinez redefined luxury with a blue frieze and white pearl Naugahyde interior, fur carpeting, and custom-contoured seats. Add in a TV, stereo system, and telephone, and the Buddha Buggy became as much a rolling lounge as a low-rider custom.

Want to learn more about this trailblazing creation and the stories behind it? Click here to visit Kustomrama to explore the history of the Buddha Buggy!​

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This is a Paid Promotion: Promote your car to thousands of enthusiasts for just $100! Click here for more info.​

For Sale: 1954 Lincoln Capri Custom "Betty"

Step into the spotlight with "Betty," a meticulously customized 1954 Lincoln Capri, transformed from a four-door sedan into a striking two-door hardtop with extensive modifications. Originally initiated by renowned customizer Gene Winfield and completed by Jeff Nicholson, this vehicle boasts a sophisticated paint job in Black Base, Red Pearl, and Red Kandy by PPG, ensuring it captivates every onlooker. "Betty" features a lowered stance, a 5 1/2 inch chopped top, and classic custom enhancements including 1955 Cadillac headlights, a 1955 Lincoln grille, and 1956 Packard taillights. Powered by a 302ci V8 engine paired with a C6 automatic transmission, this Lincoln is not just a show car but a performer as well. With a history of winning the James Dean Award at multiple Custom Car Revivals, Betty is a proven star on the show circuit. Offered with a clean title and ready for transfer, this car is a collectible masterpiece waiting to be your next classic. Click here for more info and photos on Kustomrama.​

Rock the Christmas season without a single jingle bell in sight! The Kustomrama December 2024 Playlist is here to keep your holidays cool and your engines roaring. With tracks like The Hearse by The Fleshtones, Westbound Train by Quantic, and A Certain Girl by Ernie K-Doe, this playlist is pure fire. Click here to tune in, turn it up, and let’s roll through December in style!​

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At Kustomrama, we're driven by passion, not paywalls. As a volunteer-run Encyclopedia, we're dedicated to keeping the history and legacy of traditional hot rods and custom cars free and accessible to everyone, everywhere. From server costs to content collection, every aspect of our mission needs fuel. Whether it's $5, $20, $50, or any amount you choose, your donation keeps the engine of history running.

​Click here to tip today and be a part of preserving this unique legacy for future generations.​

I appreciate your support!

Best regards
Sondre / Kustomrama Founder / Keeping History Alive

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