Following the reveal at the 2024 Detroit Autorama, the verdict is in: Dave and Tracy Maxwell’s 1953 Corvette, meticulously crafted by Kindig-It Designs, clinched the esteemed Ridler Award. This triumph is the culmination of over five years of painstaking labor, shielded from public view until its grand unveiling at the Autorama, a prerequisite for Ridler Award contention.
Baylee Kindig, Dave’s daughter, reflects on the challenge of preserving secrecy throughout the arduous build process. “Keeping people away from the car was one of the most difficult parts of the build,” she remarks.
Describing this masterpiece proves daunting; it defies the essence of a 1953 Corvette. Crafted entirely from aluminum, every element—chassis, suspension, body, and interior—bears the mark of Kindig-It Design’s artistry.
While inspired by the 1954 Corvair Corvette concept, the final form transcends its origins. The sleek lines and proportions achieved by Dave and his team surpass the elegance of Chevrolet’s ’50s vision. Emphasizing its uniqueness, it warrants reiteration: every facet of this automotive marvel is meticulously handcrafted.
And if that’s not impressive already, feast your eyes on the V-12 engine nestled beneath the hood. Yes, twelve cylinders where you’d typically find eight. Engineered by Race Cast Engineering, an Australian firm that previously turned heads at the SEMA show with its groundbreaking V-12 engines derived from LS engine architecture.
Straight out of the gate, this powerhouse churns out nearly 800 hp, and with just a sprinkle of hot rodding ingenuity, achieving a whopping 1,000 naturally-aspirated horsepower is well within reach. One can only imagine the symphony of sound it produces!
The remainder of the drivetrain mirrors that of a C7 Corvette, complete with the torque tube and 8L90E transaxle. Both the front and rear suspension systems are bespoke designs by Kindig-It, as are the custom wheels meticulously crafted by EVOD to Dave’s exact specifications.
Employing a cantilever design, the suspension elegantly actuates the coilover shocks, with the rear suspension components subtly peeking through a niche in the package tray—described by Baylee as both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
When asked about the hours invested in constructing this automotive marvel, Baylee responds, “I am afraid to count.” As for the final cost of construction, it remains a realm left unexplored. However, it suffices to acknowledge the sheer talent and masterful craftsmanship required to birth something of such extraordinary caliber.
Amidst a formidable cohort of Great 8 finalists, this car undeniably outshone them all. Heartfelt congratulations are in order for Dave and the entire team, rightfully crowned winners of the prestigious 2024 Ridler Award.
Bitchin Rides Season 11 is set to release in May 2024.
For those who have been waiting for the release of new season of Bitchin’ rides, motor trend announced back in 20th december 2023 that the new season will be released in 2024.
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