So why would KIT CAR magazine cover the big-time L.A. Auto Show? The quick answer is there really are kit cars being sold at the venue. But the real answer is: if KIT CAR is looking for the style and performance we believe our readers want, then we have to go where the action is. And in the first week of each new year, you can find that action at the L.A. Auto Show.
There is not a lot at this show that relates to the kit hobby, but if you scratch the surface a little, many thoughts expressed are applicable. Sure, Dodge debuted its SRT-8 and the SRT-10 Viper coupe, Ford used the L.A. show to debut its convertible Mustang (after all, it is Southern California, right?), and Chevy used the opportunity to unveil its odd-looking '06 HHR truck-like thing that looks like maybe Homer Simpson could have influenced some of the designer's ideas. Think its goofy SSR truck crossed with a PT Cruiser with even more boxy angles and even more disproportioned body panels.
But behind the glitz and glamour normally associated with big auto show debuts, there were a lot of other concepts and design exercises to absorb. Any car guy will stand there and figure out how they can use what someone else has done to their car to their own benefit and make it even better-it's the American way! And if Detroit's designers can attend various hot-rod car shows around the country to get ideas for paint combinations, hidden door hinges, and large-diameter wheel designs, then we can take a little back on our end, too!
Adaptability is the cornerstone of custom car building, whether you're working on a project that was delivered in crate form to your doorstep, or you're scratchbuilding a one-off concept vehicle. It's all good! So check out some of the interesting concepts exhibited, and see if you can incorporate some of these ideas into your next homebuilt project.