“6 Shooter”
1929 dodge da roadster
This exceptional 1929 Dodge DA Roadster earned an invitation to compete among just 12 distinguished vehicles selected for the prestigious 2022 America’s Most Beautiful Roadster (AMBR) competition at the Grand National Roadster Show in Pomona, California.
Widely regarded as the pinnacle of roadster competition worldwide, the America’s Most Beautiful Roadster (AMBR) competition is reserved for an elite group of vehicles and builders. Receiving an invitation to compete is a significant achievement and a testament to the craftsmanship, design excellence, and attention to detail invested in a project.
Unlike the more common Ford-based hot rods frequently seen in this category, the Dodge roadster is a rare and distinctive platform, making this vehicle particularly unique among its peers.
The car arrived at our facility with an older restoration that, while complete, no longer reflected the level of quality expected of a premier roadster. Cosmetically, it lacked the refinement the owner envisioned, and from a driving perspective, it fell short of delivering the exceptional experience he desired. His goal was straightforward yet meaningful: to create a beautiful, dependable automobile that could be enjoyed on memorable drives and special evenings out with his wife.
Working closely with the client, we developed a comprehensive plan that respected the character and heritage of the original vehicle while enhancing every aspect of its performance, comfort, and craftsmanship. Reliability and drivability remained central objectives throughout the build. Fortunately, the existing engine, transmission, and differential provided an excellent foundation and were meticulously rebuilt to exacting standards.
To complement the revitalized drivetrain, the roadster received a completely redesigned suspension system along with a set of bespoke, one-off wheels engineered specifically for the vehicle. Every component was carefully considered to create a cohesive package that delivered both exceptional road manners and visual impact.
The result is a refined and elegant roadster that seamlessly blends timeless styling with modern performance and drivability—a vehicle equally at home on the show field, competing among the industry's finest, or covering miles of open highway in comfort and confidence.
The heart of this roadster is an extremely rare 1953 Canadian Pontiac 25-inch Warranty Replacement engine, a powerplant seldom seen and highly sought after by enthusiasts of vintage performance. To maximize both performance and refinement, the engine was upgraded with increased compression, a custom ground camshaft designed by the legendary Guy Henderson, and an ultra-rare high-performance aluminum EDGY cylinder head, one of only fifteen reproductions ever produced.
Further elevating the build, we sourced an equally remarkable collection of period-correct performance components, including a set of Thickstun side covers, of which only a handful have been reproduced, and the original prototype dual carburetor Tattersfield intake manifold manufactured in 1938. Acquiring components of this caliber required years of research, industry connections, and no small amount of perseverance.
The engine was meticulously balanced and blueprinted before being fitted with a custom/hand built dual electronic fuel injection system, cleverly disguised as vintage Stromberg carburetors. The result is a powertrain that delivers modern performance, reliability and drivability while preserving the authentic appearance and spirit of a traditional hot rod.
The Throttle Linkage was custom designed in-house, to be unlike any other. It’s all hand built and works like a charm, while still fulfilling the mandate of blend in with all the rare vintage parts in the engine bay.
Lifting the hood reveals what is undoubtedly the centerpiece of the entire build. Much like opening a fine jewelry case to discover a rare and priceless gem, the engine bay showcases an extraordinary collection of craftsmanship, engineering, and historically significant components brought together in a cohesive and functional package.
Equally impressive is the chassis engineering beneath the vehicle. As no modern dual control arm suspension system exists for a 1929 Dodge, a suitable foundation was carefully selected and extensively re-engineered to integrate seamlessly with the frame. The finished installation appears as though it was designed specifically for the vehicle from the factory, while dramatically improving ride quality, handling, and overall road manners.
The body restoration was completed to the same uncompromising standard. Every surface was meticulously refined before being finished in an exceptionally deep black paint. Multiple coats of clear were applied, followed by extensive wet sanding and polishing to achieve a flawless, mirror like finish. The depth, clarity, and reflection of the final surface are a testament to the countless hours invested in perfecting every detail, resulting in a roadster that commands attention from every angle.
One-off hood side release system was designed and hand built, in house. Removing the side panels is now an easy task, when showing off the magnificent engine bay.
