In January, all roads lead to the annual Grand National Roadster Show for the most prestigious drop-top hot rod competition in the country. Held in conjunction with the Autorama in Sacramento, it has a 65-year tradition of attracting the best custom builds, and of crowning America’s Most Beautiful Roadster (AMBR).
 
There were some surprises at the 2014 show. First, the winning car was not the typical two-seater convertible, but it was a four-seat phaeton. Even more unexpected, the winner of the AMBR was a Chevy – the first to win the award in the long history of the event. Owned by Wes Rydell, of Grand Forks, North Dakota, this custom-built 1935 Chevy phaeton was designed by Chip Foose, and transformed into rolling art by Troy Trepanier’s shop, Rad Rides. Outwardly, this classic has the basic appearance of a car of this period, but with a very stylish updated look. However, beneath the skin, it has all new technology, including a fuel injected 383-inch stroker motor. And, although the fuel injection setup looks like the ‘old school’ Rochester unit, it is actually a modern Ram Jet EFI. Inside, the driver and passengers are treated to blood red leather interior.
 
While on display at the 2014 Goodguys PPG Nationals in Columbus, OH, we had the opportunity to photograph this sweet ride, which has been named ‘Black Bowtie.’ There’s no doubt that this Chevy roadster earned the right of receiving America’s Most Beautiful Roadster award. What a beauty!

1935 Chevy Phaeton