ISSISSUE # 2
SCAN ME
On The Cover Kitt STORY ON PAGE 32 & 33
ADVERTISER INDEX
On the Cover...
ARMANDO LAW FIRM REAR PAGE ASANE DESIGN: 3 KITT KNIGHT 2000: 32 & 33 AMERICAN CARCRAFT: 9 CROWN & DIAMOND JEWELERS: 31 OVER CASH HAULING: 30 Photo Credits: TWIN TURBSKEE PHOTOGRAPHY DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS TJ Lombardo Jr.. (727) 418-1711
Ride or Die Motorsports Magazine PUBLISHER Antonio Hernandez
RIDEORDIEMOTORSPORTSMAGAZINE@GMAIL.COM CO-PUBLISHER Kathleen Hernandez Ride or Die Motorsports Magazine WWW.RIDEORDIEMOTORSPORTS.COM 727-944-6961
JOIN US ON FB The information contained herein is provided by Florida Ride or Die Magazine or by its advertisers. FLROD makes every effort to present accurate and reliable information in the issue. Florida Ride or Die Magazine does not endorse, approve, or certify such information, nor does it guarantee the accuracy, completeness, efficacy, timeliness or correct sequencing of such information throughout this magazine. Use of such information is voluntary on your part, and reliance on it should only be undertaken after your independent review. Reference herein to any specific manufacturer, company, commercial product, process, or service by trade name, trademark, service mark, or otherwise does not constitute or imply endorsement of or recommendation of said by Florida Ride or Die Magazine. Florida Ride or Die Magazine (including its employees, contributors and agents) assumes no responsibility for consequences that my result from the use of the information herein, including the use of the information obtained at www.floridarideordie.com and it’s linked sites, or in any respect for the content of such information, including (but not limited to) errors or omissions, the accuracy or reasonableness of factual or scientific assumptions, studies or conclusions, ownership of copy write or other intellectual property rights, and the violation of property, privacy, or personal rights of others. FROD Magazine is not responsible for damages of any kind arising out of use, reference to, or reliance on such information. No guarantees or warranties including (but not limited to) any express or implied warranties are made by FLROD Magazine with respect to such information contained throughout the site. © 2024 No part may be copied without written permission of the publisher, Florida Ride or Die Magazine.
2
RIDE OR DIE MOTORSPORTS MAGAZINE
3
4
SCAN & WATCH FREE ON TUBI
5
Crazy Horse
“CRAZY HORSE” 1970 Mustang Fastback Restomod Paul and Susan Saunders, the proud owners, originally hail from upstate New York and now call Ocala, Florida, home. Owner History Growing up near Watkins Glen in New York during the late '60s and early '70s, Paul had the privilege of a close friendship with a boy whose father worked with Sunoco. This connection granted them free access to major races at the Glen, including the Trans Am, Can Am, and U.S. Grand Prix. With pit passes in hand, two young car enthusiasts found themselves star-struck alongside legends like Roger Penske, Mark Donahue, Jackie Stewart, Graham Hill, and Jim Clark. This early exposure ignited Paul’s lifelong passion for cars. His first car was a 1958 Chevrolet Impala that he acquired for just $15 and a new voltage regulator, followed by a 1965 MG Midget as his first driver. Before owning the Mustang, Paul and Susan had a 1968 Camaro, and today, alongside their daily drivers, they also own a 1967 Lancia Fulvia Sport Zagato. Although not initially on his bucket list, this Italian gem became available through a friend of Susan’s, and it has proven to be a joy to work on and drive. While Paul brings it to cars and coffee events and local shows, it remains a work in progress, making long trips impractical. The experience of shifting from the Italian car, with its modest 80-ish horsepower, to the Mustang keeps things exciting! In addition to their automotive enthusiasm, Paul and Susan also care for three horses and enjoy trail riding, along with spending quality time with their Golden Retriever, Tucker. Mustang History The Mustang was acquired in Sarasota, Florida, in 2006 as a restoration project. The interior required a complete overhaul, the 302 CI engine, though functional, was weary, and the paint was a faded flat blue. After media blasting in 2007, it became clear that the Florida salt air had severely affected the body. Given the overall condition, the owners decided on a full customization rather than a traditional restoration. After three false starts with various shops across three states and a few intentional pauses, the project finally reached completion in April 2025 at the Florida Rod Shop in Wesley Chapel, FL.
6
As a fully custom build, the remarkable FRS team worked alongside numerous suppliers and fabricators who contributed components, services, and technical expertise. Since its recent completion, the Mustang has been showcased extensively, earning accolades at every event it has attended.
*The Factory (NJ) & Florida Rod Shop Overview** *Engine Components:** 351W/427 Ford Racing block with forged crank and rods Edelbrock E205 aluminum heads Comp Cams custom camshaft with roller rockers Speedmaster EFI intake manifold F.A.S.T. 57 lb fuel injectors with Holley Terminator X Computer DIS Ignition system with hidden Coil-On Plug March polished underdrive pulley set Full 3” stainless steel exhaust with Magna Flow mufflers *Drive Train:** Tremec T56 Magnum 6-speed transmission Ford 9” rear end with 3:70 gears *Chassis/Suspension:** Custom 2x4 tubular chassis by Scott's Hotrods 'n Customs QA-1 coilovers Wilwood 14” rotors with 6-piston front and 4-piston rear calipers 4-link rear suspension Power rack & pinion steering *Wheels:** Schott Performance Venom wheels: 20 x 12 rear, 18 x 9 front *Body:** Custom design by Eric Brockmeyer; body panels modified or fabricated Shaved and channeled body with sectioned bumpers Electric door poppers and power folddown license plate *Paint:** PPG – Deltron Jet Black Basecoat *Interior:** Custom hand-stitched interior with Runaway Love Red leather Recaro seats and Dakota Digital instrument cluster Concealed storage with rear package tray on gas shocks Vintage Air *Advice for Building:** Do as much as you can, but know your limits Research before hiring help Monitor work against billing Be patient; timelines vary If married, consider a hidden personal account for expenses Building this project was thrilling yet stressful, but seeing the finished car and connecting with fellow car enthusiasts made it worthwhile.
Crazy Horse
7
1900 Fairlane GT
This is the muscle car I longed for when I left for Vietnam in 1967, but it was beyond my budget. *1966 Fairlane GT** Chuck and Mickie acquired this car in 1993 while residing in Clearwater, FL. We brought it home without any running gear—no motor, transmission, or rear differential—needing some TLC and a fresh coat of paint. We sourced a donor vehicle that had an original 390 cubic inch engine, delivering 335 horsepower. We rebuilt the entire drivetrain, which included installing Edelbrock aluminum performance heads and an aluminum Edelbrock intake, paired with a 700 CFM Holley carburetor, along with a competition cam and headers. We even installed the 4-speed transmission ourselves. We prepared the body and engine bay, and a friend painted it over 30 years ago using Black Imron paint, a high-performance polyurethane enamel known for its chemical resistance and glossy finish. Much of the car remains original, including the red interior, bumpers, and grille. The Cragar wheels enhance its nostalgic appeal. This car is an original A/C model and was first purchased in Florida, with a rust-free body.
At 78 years old, I live in Citrus County, FL, and there aren’t many of these Fairlanes still on the road. As it was a two-year body style, we intend to keep it in our family and pass it down to our grandson. The Fairlane has participated in hundreds of car shows across Florida, and we will continue to enjoy it just as we have for so many years.
8
9
Ever since I was little, Corvettes had a special pull on me. They were sleek, loud, and full of attitude— everything my younger self thought was pure magic. I’d watch one roll by and whisper to myself, one day. Life moved fast, though, and that dream sat quietly in the background while work and family came first. But it never disappeared. At 62, that childhood dream finally came to life with a brand‑new 2024 Stingray 2LT. Sitting in the driver’s seat for the first time felt unreal. The sound, the feel, the way it gripped the road—it brought back every memory of that kid who once stood on the sidewalk in awe. Then came the fun part: making it mine. A custom wrap, sharp body upgrades, and vertical doors turned it into something truly unforgettable. Every drive reminds me that the wait was worth it. This isn’t just a car. It’s a promise kept, a dream earned, and proof that it’s never too late to chase what sparks your soul.
10
1980 EL
CAMINO
My name is Lynn D. Rudd, a retired union painter currently residing in Spring Hill, Florida. My passion for fast cars ignited at an early age. My very first vehicle was a '70 F-85 Olds, which I acquired in '73 during my senior year of high school. Since then, I've owned several other cars. Fast forward to 2023: I realized that I no longer needed a full-sized pickup, so I set my sights on finding an El Camino. My search led me back to my hometown of Louisville, Kentucky, where I reconnected with an old friend of 40 years who had an '80 El Camino he was willing to sell. We decided to fly up and drive her, named Ruby, home after making a few modifications, including a 700R4 transmission swap and new tires and wheels. One day, while browsing, I stumbled upon a Hot Wheels car that resembled Ruby's color, which sparked a creative idea. I found the right stripe decals and got to work!
11
CHRYSLER 300 H 1 of 1 Hurst Heritage GSS Chrysler 300H When Covid struck, Jim found himself spending quite a bit of time online. As a dedicated Chrysler 300 enthusiast, already owning a 2014 300S, he discovered this extraordinary, one-ofa-kind Hurst edition in Oregon. Now retired after 51 years, his wife encouraged him to pursue his dream car, saying, “You’ve earned it.” This model was created as a special tribute to the 1970 Chrysler 300H. The “GSS” badge stands for “Grand Spaulding Special,” named after the historically significant location at the intersection of Grand and Spaulding streets in Chicago, where the renowned Mopar dealership, Mr. Norm’s Grand Spaulding Dodge, was situated. The vehicle boasts numerous custom features, including Hurst gold custom paint, a bespoke interior crafted by Katzkin Leather, a Hellcat functional ram air hood and intake, Hurst lowering springs, Flowmaster exhaust, and much more. The meticulous attention to detail truly makes this Hurst a standout among modern vehicles.
12
Rumble Bee
The Ram Rumble Bee Pre-Production Show Truck Story and photos by Dan Fisher, Racers and Rods Media and Events* Much like a fine wine, the 2004 Ram Rumble Bee 1500 SLT is a limited edition, with only two ever produced before its sale year. The owner, Bob Cargile, has plenty to share about this impressive Dodge. “The Rumble Bee was their opportunity to re-enter the muscle car and truck market,” Cargile explained. “Although it was titled as a 2004, it was built in 2003 and labeled as a 2005 model Ram 4x4.” Cargile reminisced about the first car show he attended with the Rumble Bee, a Mopar event at the Hard Rock Casino in Immokalee, where it won Best in Show. “I believe Mopars today have truly excelled in horsepower and performance,” Cargile stated. “Regardless of someone’s interest in cars, it’s hard not to recognize what a Hemi is, as it represents the pinnacle of all Mopar engines.” Upon taking a 360-degree look, its 20-inch wheels shine just as brightly as they did when leaving the factory, thanks to Bob’s dedicated maintenance fueled by his passion for the Mopar pickup. Outfitted with a chrome exhaust tip and bodycolored taillamp guards, these factory accessories redefine the appearance of a Dodge Ram. The Rumble Bee’s powerful heart, a hemispherical engine, boasts an average of 345 hp and 375 lb-ft of torque, according to MoparInsiders.com. Cargile noted that driving his Rumble Bee reminds him of his 1968 Chevrolet Corvette, delivering performance that, in his view, rivals that of the iconic Vette. From Cargile’s collection of insights, he revealed that the Rumble Bee was also offered in Black and Solar Yellow, alongside its signature bumble bee livery. Powered by a 348 cubic-inch Hemi V8, it was designed to bring the sting to the Big Three. When it comes to towing, Cargile stated that the Rumble Bee performs exceptionally well. “I drove the Rumble Bee from Florida back to my home in Missouri,” Cargile recounted. “I was towing a 24-foot enclosed trailer with a Cadillac DeVille inside, and it felt like the trailer wasn’t even there.” At 20 years old and authentic from the ground up, the limited-edition Ram Rumble Bee is a product of classic muscle car heritage, crafted by Dodge designers to achieve the ideal in American pickups —large and small—ushering in a new era of performance in American-branded trucks.
13
1965 Jimmy Cappas and His Timeless 1965 Lincoln Continental Sedan
Lincoln
Jimmy Cappas proudly owns a 1965 Lincoln Continental Sedan, affectionately known as Big Gurl. This stunning vehicle boasts a sleek black exterior complemented by a Palomino interior and has recently surpassed the 84,000-mile mark—maintaining its original charm while incorporating a few tasteful modern upgrades. Jimmy welcomed the Lincoln into his life in May, and after a cross-country journey from California, it reached its new home on June 5th—aptly celebrated as 6/5 day. The Continental arrived with several practical enhancements, including a relocated Edelbrock fuel pump at the rear, an upgraded alternator, a larger cooling system, and the classic Lincoln air cleaner. However, Jimmy's aspirations for Big Gurl went beyond mere preservation. Even before the car's arrival, he had carefully sourced parts to add his personal touches. These enhancements feature a universal AeroLeaf air suspension kit paired with AccuAir’s E-Plus Endo VT air management system, which includes auto-leveling, dual Viair 480 compressors, and a floating 5-gallon tank finished with the “Suicide Slab” logo, along with a concealed 3-gallon auxiliary tank. The exterior lighting was modernized with Dapper headlights, complete with halos, while a set of 20-inch Isotope Kendal wheels wrapped in 245/40R20 Diamondback whitewall tires complete the stunning aesthetic. The outcome is a Continental that masterfully fuses classic elegance with modern performance and style— creating an unmistakable presence on the road that honors its heritage while showcasing its owner’s unique vision.
14
1929 Ford Model A
👋
Hello , I’m Lisa Morales, and I’m currently 66 years old. I was born in California, raised in downtown Jersey City, NJ, and now reside in Spring Hill, FL. I proudly own a 1929 Ford Model A pickup, affectionately named Betty Lee. She features a modified chassis equipped with sway bars, ladders, and coilovers, along with a Mustang front end, a shortened 10-bolt rear, front disc brakes, and rear drums. The 10-gallon gas tank has been relocated to the rear, and she boasts a Pioneer sound system with Bluetooth and a backup camera, complemented by Harley Davidson tail lights and bells. I’ve had her for about a year now. Here’s a funny story about how I got into cars: During my sophomore year, I was kicked out of Spanish class. Since my “old man” was a mechanic, I decided to transfer to an auto mechanic class—and that’s when I became hooked! This was in the early '70s when cars were truly iconic. Everyone owned one, and we would often work on them in the streets, preparing to race them in the back warehouse district of Newark, NJ. I would say, know your car, learn about it, have fun with it, but always remember to respect it.
✌️
15
16
17
Mad Dog
18
Mad Dog My name is Matt Smith from Festus MO. I live in Hudson Fl. This was our son Matthew JR.'s truck that passed in 2022 from a motorcycle accident. He passed 3 days after we brought home from getting painted so we finished for him. It's a 2004 Ford Ranger that was a work truck that we put a 3 inch lift and 33 inch tires and paint job on. We call it Mad Dog his nick name from football that we had hand painted on the tailgate
Betty Lou
BETTY LOU My name is Sherry Smith from Festus MO. I live in Hudson Fl. This was my Mom's car she left to me when she passed in 2019. It's a 81 El Camino 350 with 350 turbo factory air. She called her Red but we call her Betty Lou
19
# 2021 Mustang GT Gary Hricewich / Ocala, FL** This is my beloved "Maria." I placed the order on February 22, 2021, and she arrived at the dealer on April 6, 2021. That day was truly one of the happiest moments of my life. Engine:** 5.0 Coyote Transmission:** 6-speed manual Rear Gears:** 3:73 Package: GT Performance Package To boost her horsepower, I added a Roush cold air intake and a 93 octane tune. The factory racing stripes give her a striking presence, while the underhood chrome pieces enhance her shine. I've owned several Mustangs in the past, but Maria is truly special. She’s a beautiful and exhilarating car to drive. I’m part of various car clubs and attend many shows, always having a fantastic time with friends and meeting new enthusiasts.
20
Maria
The very first Corvette ever built, VIN 001, has been found in Tulsa after disappearing for decades! Hand-assembled in 1953 as one of the first 300 Corvettes ever made, this legendary car rolled off the line in Michigan and then vanished without a trace. Collectors thought it was lost forever, but it turned up sitting in storage, untouched, unrestored, and still rocking its original fiberglass body. For car lovers, this is like finding a missing piece of automotive history.
21
22
Ford Lightning 2004 Ford lightning I was born in Pennsylvania but grew up in Largo and Clearwater,Florida. I live in Port Richey, Florida. I bought my Ford lightning back in 2005. I had test driven SRT 8 and SRT 10 trucks but I wasn’t happy with any of them so I never bought one.Then I got behind the wheel of the Ford Lightning I fell in love with it and I instantly knew it was the right one for me. I’ve done a lot of custom work on it. I replaced a lot of the bolts throughout the truck with ARP bolts;underneath the truck,the engine bay bolts and interior bolts. It has a custom cog pulley belt drive,American racing long tube headers with full 3inch exhaust Steffner traction bars custom painted to match the exterior paint, and have HOTCHKIS rear leaf springs, punisher valve body dual 255s fuel pumps 86 pound injectors,single braid throttlebody, JLP cold air in take with a custom-made cover design to match my truck SCT 2800 maf and tuned by Johnny lightning performance to run on 93 mixed with 110 octane race fuel. I grew up going to car shows with my dad since I was in elementary school;he taught me a lot about cars and how to work on them so his passion for American Muscle Cars got passed to me. My dad passed away November 8,2023 and I would like to take a moment and thank him very much for everything he taught me and say I love you dad. I’m a welder by trade I can mig tig and stick weld aluminum,stainless steel and carbon steel.In my free time I enjoy working on cars,helping friends out,going to and participating in car shows and I enjoy being an active member of Florida Venom Outlaws.
23
24
Frank Hill, age 76: Born and raised in San Antonio, Florida. Moved to Clearwater, after graduating high school in 1967 to attend Pinellas Vocational Technical School. I have had several “hats” in my lifetime…… first becoming a machinist from 1968 to 1977 and then becoming a firefighter with the Clearwater Fire Department from 1977 to retirement in 2002. In the interim, from 1987 to 2004, my wife and I took over the running of the Sunshine Speedway, at the death of her father, who built the track in 1960. Running the day to day operation of a stock car track reinforced my love for building cars. After moving back to San Antonio, I purchased just the cab of my 1949 COE (cab over engine) truck and proceeded to fabricate the rest of the truck. I used a 1987 Ford E350 camper van, that I shortened 7’ for the rolling chassis and then had a 351 Windsor motor and AOD transmission built for it. I have been driving the truck since February of 2025, after a 3 year build process. I have always liked the old cars and trucks, because I grew up in the muscle car era. Some of the best memories I have are of driving classic cars of the 50’s and 60’s.
25
My name is Carlos I Ruiz Lopez I’m 40 years old I drive a Volkswagen Cabrio 1998 mk3 (The Nightmare) This Volkswagen have a custom rims, seats,steering wheel,headlights and suspension The engine is 2.0 stock Is my daily driving car I started my passion for cars at a young age in drag racing with Honda cars My first car was a Honda CRX 1990 but I found something different with Volkswagen especially with this Cabrio I want to thank my wife Joselyn (stitch the blue beetle) for the support and all my friends Thanks….
26
We’re Danny and Lisa Herbert, ages 54 and 53, straight outta Tampa, FL, now cruising in Brooksville. We’ve got a precious gem—a ’69 Firebird—passed down by my dad to keep it in the family. We’re on a mission to preserve its original flair while diving into the car show scene! With wrenches in hand and a passion for nostalgia, my hubby and I are having a blast restoring and cruising in this classic beauty. The car shows bring back fond memories of my dad’s adventures, and we’re revved up to create new ones!
27
Insurance News
rideordielawyer.com
PROTECTING YOURSELF Auto Insurance Demystified:
MOST DRIVERS THINK THEY’RE COVERED—UNTIL IT’S TOO LATE. In Florida, having “full coverage” often means only the bare minimum: Personal Injury Protection (PIP) and Property Damage Liability. But when an accident happens—especially one caused by an uninsured or underinsured driver—many find themselves holding the financial bag. As an attorney practicing throughout Florida, I’ve seen too many cases where clients thought they were protected, only to discover gaps in their policy when they needed it most. This article breaks down what coverage truly protects you, why motorcycle riders need to pay special attention, and how to handle claims forpropertydamage,whetheryou’re at fault or not.
Florida’s Minimum Insurance: Not Enough Toregisteravehiclein Florida, you’re required to carry: PIP (Personal Injury Protection): Covers your own medical bills up to $10,000, regardless of fault. Property Damage Liability: Covers damage you cause to someone else’s property—up to $10,000.
Lost wages Future care Without it, you could be left with massive bills and no way to collect. Motorcycle riders, take note: you're especially vulnerable. PIP doesn’t cover you on a bike. Without UM or BI, a crash caused by someone else could financially devastate you.
Property Damage Only: What to Know
If someone hits your car and you’re not injured:
What’s missing? Protection for people, not just property. Florida You can file a property damage does not require Bodily Injury (BI) claim through their insurance coverage—insurance that for vehicle repairs, rental costs, compensates others if you injure and loss of use. them. That means many drivers on If their coverage is insufficient or they’re uninsured, you’ll need the road have no coverage for Collision Coverage on your injuries they cause. policy to get compensated.
Why You Must Have Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage
28
Florida leads the nation in uninsured drivers—1 in 4 motorists have no insurance. If you’re hit by one of them, Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage is what steps in to pay for: Medical expenses beyond PIP Pain and suffering
When You’re at Fault Ifyou causedthe damage: Collision Coverage pays to repair or replace your vehicle. Comprehensive Coverage handles non-collision damage (theft, vandalism, falling objects, etc.). You’ll pay a deductible, and your premiums may increase, but you’ll avoid out-of-pocket disaster.
Don’t forget about diminished value—you may be entitled to compensation for your car’s lost resale value even after repairs.
Continue reading >
Insurance News
rideordielawyer.com
DON'T BE FOOLED BY 'FULL COVERAGE' Many people say, “Don’t worry—I have full coverage.” That usually just means PIP + Property Damage + Collision. It does not include BI or UM, the two most important coverages for real protection. Final Advice: Review and Protect 1.Don’t chase the lowest premium—chase the right coverage. Cheap plans often leave you exposed. 2.Always carry Bodily Injury and UM/UIM coverage—if you can’t afford both, reconsider what else you’re paying for. 3.Understand your policy—know what you’re protected from before the accident happens.
Gap Insurance: A Safety Net for Financed Vehicles
Medical Payments (MedPay): Filling in the Gaps
Ifyou financed or leasedyour vehicle with little or no down payment, gap insurance is a must. In the event your car is totaled, your collision coverage pays out based on the vehicle’s current market value—not what you owe on the loan.That leaves many drivers “upside down,” owing thousandseven after the insurance payout. Gap insurance coversthedifference, protectingyou from a major financialblowaftera total loss.
deductibles, co-pays, and additionalcare. MedPay isespecially valuable if you don’t havehealth insurance or wantadded peace of mind. It also coverspassengersand, in some cases,you asa pedestrian or cyclisthit by a vehicle.
Another overlooked option is Medical Payments coverage (MedPay). This add-on helps pay for medical costs not fully covered by PIP—like
DON’T BE FOOLED — GET PROTECTED. 18+YearsExp | U.S.MarineCorpsVeteran
CAR, TRUCK, & MOTORCYCLE
ACCIDENTS RIDEORDIELAWYER.COM 813-587-0384 MAIN OFFICETAMPA, FL
29
Overcash Trucking LLC is a reliable vehicle transport company in Tampa Bay, specializing in RV transport and nationwide delivery. Known for safety, efficiency, and excellent customer service, they operate a fleet of enclosed and open trailers for various transport needs. Their experienced team ensures careful handling of cars, trucks, RVs, and equipment. Committed to customer satisfaction, they provide clear communication throughout the process and deliver anywhere in the U.S. Overcash Trucking is a trusted partner for dealerships, contractors, and vehicle owners, ensuring timely and safe transport solutions.
30
31
My Journey to Build My Childhood Hero KITT On February 7, 2024, I embarked on an exciting journey to recreate my childhood hero, KITT, from the iconic 80s TV series *Knight Rider*. I found a 1987 Pontiac Firebird on Marketplace for $2,500, purchased from a gentleman in Winter Garden, Florida. This was a base model Firebird, one of only 304 made in 1987, featuring a yellow exterior and a 305 engine with T-Tops. As soon as I brought the car home, I dove right into the project. The vehicle was completely stripped down to its bare bones and taken apart. My good friend Jon helped me rebuild and upgrade the engine and transmission. The 305 engine received a mild Competition Cams upgrade, flat-top pistons, and a bit shaved off the heads. It was topped off with an Edelbrock Performer Intake and Carburetor, along with B&B Headers. The TH400 transmission also underwent all the typical modern upgrades. Throughout the process, I encountered numerous challenges due to subpar work from individuals who claimed to be "Students of the Trade." Their so-called "masterful work" often needed to be redone, costing me both time and money. To make matters worse, the car was stolen and partially stripped while at the original body shop, which abandoned the premises in the middle of the night, several months behind on rent. I was fortunate to recover it with minimal damage. After the second body shop completed their work, the car was transported to Louisville, Kentucky, to my close friend Scott Benson of Knight Industries of Kentucky.
32
He spent countless hours performing meticulous work in extreme heat and cold temps. Scott was responsible some mechanical and all the electronics such as the dashboard, sound system and unique special features KITT has such as a Oil Slick and Police Mode featured on the Knight Rider Episode "Fight for Life". Police mode and the trick Turn Signal/ Fog Lights were developed by Braven Dirk of Brave Tech in Canada. The dashboard was provided by Riccardo Vera of Kitts Customs and the dash electronics were provided by Alessandro Zagni of ZA Electronics. My very good friend Greg Woody of Desin Florida provided numerous hard to find parts and brand new BF Goodrich tires. The build was almost 2 years on the making and will be making its debut on July at the Southern Knights of Atlanta Knight Rider Convention. My KITT Replica will be available for static displays at 80s themed Birthday Parties, Weddings, Corporate Events, Main Attractions at Car Shows and Car Dealership Showroom Display and Movie Shoots. I also wish to use KITT to raise awareness for Autism at car shows and events. Please contact Michael at 727-777-0994 for info. Building this car was a dream come true for me and I hope will be an inspiration to others to build the car of their dreams too.
33
34
Jason Williams and Bonita: A Classic Tale from Detroit to Florida Jason Williams, originally from Detroit, Michigan, now resides in sunny Florida. His passion for classic cars runs deep, rooted in fond memories of his father who always had a classic car. Jason promised his dad that one day he would own a classic of his own and keep it in his memory. That promise led him to Bonita, a 1963 Chevy Biscayne with a powerful 327 engine and a Ford 9-inch rear end. Jason acquired Bonita from a gentleman in Florida, who originally hailed from Brooklyn, New York. The car itself is not just a vehicle but a living tribute to family legacy and a testament to Jason's dedication. Whether it's the thrill of cruising down the highway or the joy of restoring Bonita to her former glory, Jason’s journey with his classic car is a heartfelt blend of nostalgia, passion, and family heritage.
35
The Art of American Muscle Owner: LeRoy Key Car: Wild Phangz (2003 Dodge Viper SRT-10 Convertible) Quote: “Build what you love and don’t rush the process.” Biography LeRoy, a dedicated car enthusiast over the age of 60, has made a significant impact in the car show community with his stunning Dodge Viper SRT-10 Convertible, lovingly named 'Wild Phangz.' Growing up with a passion for American muscle, LeRoy now proudly presents his vehicle at shows and events that honor performance, style, and commitment. His journey into the automotive world began years ago, driven by the excitement of driving and the camaraderie of fellow car enthusiasts who challenge the boundaries of design and performance. Throughout the years, he has created lasting memories, forged friendships, and built a reputation in the industry, transforming 'Wild Phangz' into a symbol of his personal journey. Beyond his love for cars, LeRoy engages in hobbies that keep him active, creative, and eager to learn. His message to fellow enthusiasts is both simple and profound: build what you love and take your time—because every detail matters.
Quick-Glance Specs Engine: 8.3L V10 — 500 hp @ 5,600 RPM — 525 lb-ft torque @ 4,200 RPM Transmission: 6-speed manual (Tremec T56) Performance: 0–60 mph: 3.9 sec | Top Speed: 190+ mph | Quarter Mile: 11.7 sec Drivetrain: Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) | Curb Weight: 3,380 lbs | Fuel Economy: 15 MPG combined Brakes: Brembo 4-wheel disc brakes Suspension: Independent double wishbone Wheels: BC Forged LE05 — Matte Black/Gloss Lip/Titanium Blue
36
Bonita
Jason Williams and Bonita: A Classic Tale from Detroit to Florida Jason Williams, originally from Detroit, Michigan, now resides in sunny Florida. His passion for classic cars runs deep, rooted in fond memories of his father who always had a classic car. Jason promised his dad that one day he would own a classic of his own and keep it in his memory. That promise led him to Bonita, a 1963 Chevy Biscayne with a powerful 327 engine and a Ford 9-inch rear end. Jason acquired Bonita from a gentleman in Florida, who originally hailed from Brooklyn, New York. The car itself is not just a vehicle but a living tribute to family legacy and a testament to Jason's dedication. Whether it's the thrill of cruising down the highway or the joy of restoring Bonita to her former glory, Jason’s journey with his classic car is a heartfelt blend of nostalgia, passion, and family heritage.
37
1983 MONTE CARLO SS 1983 Monte Carlo SS Overview The 1983 Monte Carlo SS was skillfully crafted by Ron Miller, Donovan Moe, and Mike Overcash at Motor City Muscle Cars located in Spring Hill, FL. Exterior The car features a stunning pearl white paint job. Interior Custom seats were designed by Willie's Interior. Engine: Under the hood, it boasts a powerful 502 ci big block engine, equipped with AFR aluminum heads and an 871 BDS blower. Transmission It is paired with a 400 transmission. Rear End The vehicle is fitted with a 410 Quick Performance Fab Nine rear end.
38
39
40