In 2006, California hot rod builder Rudy Rodriguez began the transformation of this near perfect low mile original ’40 Mercury into a replica of what he deemed a factory show car found on eBay. His goal was to break from tradition, yet remain completely traditional. This car balances both the aggressiveness of it’s roof line and stance with subtlety, restraint, and elegance.

It was recently completed and debuted in the main hall of the 2011 Grand National Roadster Show in January.

Nearly every panel of the car was altered. Some alterations are slight while others are complete design makeovers. The roof was almost entirely hand made.

The side window opening was extended while the window frames were made from two complete sets of originals and the inside radius was hand made.

The immaculate body work and black paint were done by “Top Gun” award winner Hot Rods and Hobbies in Signal Hill, California.

The bumpers and bumper brackets were chrome plated. The grille was chromed with the fins being painted flat silver for contrast.

The hood latch was hand made and the bullnose was reworked to fit the hood perfectly.

The hood emblems were removed and portions of the side moldings were hand made. The front window stainless trim is one piece and uses no clips.

Here, with the door open, the door garnish moldings can be seen totally altered from stock with wing window removed and chrome plated. The stainless window frames are attached to the door as from the factory with the jewel molding remaining on the body of the car.

The stock three speed steering column was chrome plated. The 1946 wheel has a Ford horn ring and a modified Mercury horn button. The dash plastics were custom made out of resin and chrome plated.

The radio was removed and all interior window garnish moldings were custom fit and chrome plated. The headliner is vintage Mercedes-Benz black wool.

The stock Mercury Flathead and original three speed powers this car. The show quality restoration was intended to look factory stock. The Columbia two speed rear end is c-notched into the frame with a three position spring settup for ride height. The car drives comfortably at 75 mph and the suspension has full comfortable travel.

You can find Rudy Rodriguez’ creations  in the hands of Rock Stars, in exclusive private collections, or on display in museums. His work is known for his attention to detail and finish. This is considered by many to be the new high water mark in Traditional Customs and would be the Crown Jewel of any car collection. Special thanks to Rudy Rodriquez, Fullerton Fabrications, Hot Rods and Hobbies, and ebay motors.