THE 2024 SYRACUSE NATIONALS


MY TOP 15 CUSTOM CARS SEEN IN SYRACUSE

Article on the TOP 15 of the most beautiful car in the Syracuse Nationals 2024

 EDITED BY ALAIN LEMIRE

 PUBLISH ON OCTOBER 15, 2024

I

magine a place where classic, custom and modern cars meet for an epic four-day party. Welcome to the Syracuse Nationals!

It’s like Marty McFly took the DeLorean for a ride through the automotive decades, and decided to stop in Syracuse to show you his top 15 custom cars he found. From the shiny hot rods to the nasty customized muscle cars without forgetting the pro streets, it is a real carnival of chrome and horsepower.

 

The traffic lanes and parking lots of the New York State Fairgrounds are lined with cars that shine brighter than Hollywood stars, with engines that roar like lions in cages. You can almost hear the whispers of the 50s, 60s, and 70s, mingling with the "beats" of the 2000s.

That's were I found 15 of the most interesting cusom cars.

 

HOW CARS FROM THE TOP 15 are chosen

Article on the TOP 15 of the most beautiful car in the Syracuse Nationals 2024

The choice of cars from the Lemire Auto Media Top 15 was made based on the stance, body and inteiro colors, creativity of the builder. The choices are not associated with any automobile judgment rules.

It’s a journey back in time where every car has a story to tell, and each owner is ready to share it with a smile and a spark in their eyes.

The cars in this "Top 15" are presented in order of model year of construction.

A BUICK OF THE 30’s - A HIGH class HOT ROD

Buick 1930 - Top 10 of the Best Syracuse Nationals 2024 custom cars by Lemire Auto Media

This 1930s Buick is like a friendly grandmother... calm and laid back in appearance, but ready to surprise you at any time. Its oversized wheels and mystery engine are its hidden super powers.

THE CAR IN DETAILS
The Buick is painted in a deep metallic burgundy color with a black section covering the superior section of the doors, roof and the top of the hood. It features a vintage design with a long front hood housing a newer engine, a vertical louvered front grill and round vintage headlights of the era.

The wheels, about 20 inches in diameter that take up the colors combo of the bodywork, are built with short spokes added with a central cap covering the wheel mounting nuts, all equipped on today’s large high-performance tires.

A DUO OF RED AND GREEN "HiBOY" HOT ROD FORD 1932

1932 2 Ford Hiboy - Top 10 of the Best Syracuse Nationals 2024 custom cars by Lemire Auto Media

The two 1932 Ford 5 windows coupe (excluding windshield) is proudly display the classic style of hot rod Highboy, popularized before the 2nd world war. Imagine, these beauties taking off their mudguards and their footboards, as if to say "who needs this stuff when you have so much style?" Ready to dominate the roads, these cars are the cool grandfathers of modern hot rods.

THE CARS IN DETAILS
The cars feature its prominent grill of vertical factory slats and an exposed engine of a Lincoln for the green hot rod, all accented with chrome parts and various finishes. The wheels are from the 1950s with small chrome wheel caps mounted on narrow tires to look of the same 1950s era.

The body rests on the chassis without being lowered around it, giving a sleek and aggressive look. The chassis is often visible, adding to the vehicle’s raw and mechanical aesthetics. It is a unique and elegant model, particularly appreciated by fans of modified hot rods.

A THIRD BLACK 1932 FORD WITH TRADITIONAL "HIBOY" LOOK

1932 Ford Hiboy Sedan 2 doors - Top 10 of the Best Syracuse Nationals 2024 custom cars by Lemire Auto Media

The custom 2-door sedan 1932 Ford, is like a black model dressed in black, with just enough chrome to shine without doing too much. Under the hood, a custom orange engine roars, ready to leave other cars in the dust. This beast is designed for maximum performance, with a style that imposes as much as its acceleration.

THE CAR IN DETAILS

The front wheels have a classic design with short spokes of large diameter in vogue today as on the Buick seen before. The rims are also embellished with small chrome wheel caps, and the rear tires are wider for better traction. A very visible visual specification is the removal of mudguards.

This "hiboy" trend really took off after the Second World War, when American soldiers came back with mechanical skills and an interest in car customization.

This type of car was popular in dry lakes speed races on and specialized exhibitions. The visible chassis of the car adds to the raw aesthetic of the vehicle.

A 1952 CHEVROLET BELAIR DRESSED IN ROCKABILLY STYLE

1951 Chevrolet Circa - Top 10 of the Best Syracuse Nationals 2024 custom cars by Lemire Auto Media

The 1950s Chevrolet Bel Air, lovingly pampered and customised, proudly displays a two-tone paint. Imagine a white satin dress, with a gold "metal flake" hat sparkling two tones. To top it all off, "pin stripe" golden lines type bring a touch of refinement worthy of a fashion show with Rockabilly trend.

THE CAR DETAILED
Its interior is harmonized with the exterior colors especially at the level of seats and door interiors. The rather hairy ceiling, adds a touch of originality.

The car features modifications such as custom chrome wheels with a gold-coloured centre, all fitted with white side tires, highlighting the attention to detail and care taken in the rockabilly customization of the car.

This beauty does not just roll, she parades with panache!

A 1955 CHEVROLET 210 AND TELEVISION STARLET

1955 Chevrolet 210 - Top 10 of the Best Syracuse Nationals 2024 custom cars by Lemire Auto Media

The 1955 Chevrolet 210, revised and corrected with a bold two-tone scheme, proudly displays a shimmering orange metallic bodywork, enhanced by a deep black painted roof and trunk. Chrome details shine brightly, especially on the front grille, bumpers and around the windshield. It looks like she’s wearing her jewelry for a social party!

THE CAR IN DETAILS

The car was customized is equipped with modern chrome alloy wheels with 5 arched branches, larger diameter than those of the time. The open car hood reveals a modern engine, suggesting performance improvements for this classic model.

The interior of this 210 combines vintage style and modernity. The beige and brown leather seats have a more modern pleasing design. The 2-tone steering wheel of a 1960 Impala and the metal racing gear lever add a classic touch.

The dashboard, which matches the exterior, incorporates modern gauges and digital display. Door panels are also padded to match the seats.

This Chevrolet is interesting, showing a mix of classic car design with modern modifications, reflecting both the history of the car and the contemporary culture of custom cars.

A 1955 BLACK CHEVROLET BELAIR with a hell OF A look

1955 Chevrolet Bel Air - Top 10 of the Best Syracuse Nationals 2024 custom cars by Lemire Auto Media

The custom 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air coupe, painted in deep black, proudly displays its Pro Street look. With its hood wide open, it unveils a chrome engine in the "old school" style, restored with love and care worthy of an engineering masterpiece.

THE CAR IN DETAILS

The car retains factory chrome accents, especially on the front grille, bumpers and around the headlights. It is equipped with custom 5-spoke wheels with a polished finish. The rear wheels of a good width gives an idea of the owner’s taste to leave a trace on the roads.

The interior of the car is visible through the passenger window, shows a red and black upholstery that contrasts with the exterior color.

 

A 1960 CADILLAC COUPE DEVILLE ELEGANTLY LOWERED

1961 Cadillac Eldorado Coupe deVille - Top 10 of the Best Syracuse Nationals 2024 custom cars by Lemire Auto Media

The tastefully customized 1960 Cadillac Coupe DeVille features a long and elegant body painted in medium metallic blue. This beauty rolls with the style of a red carpet that could magically turn blue, undulating in a summer breeze. A look that says "Yes, I am elegant and I know it."

THE CAR IN DETAILS

It features distinctive aviation-inspired rear fins and chrome accents, characteristic of GM’s automotive design of the period.

The specific modifications visible in the image are its large chrome wheels with a vintage look and its lowered suspension enhancing the effect of length of the car when dropped.

The interior of this 1960 Cadillac is a striking example of the style and luxury of the time. The seats are upholstered in light blue leather with dark blue fabric accents, creating a sophisticated and elegant contrast.

Door panels match the seats with light blue leather sections and narrow metal band inserts. The dashboard take dark blue, with chrome elements adding a touch of brilliance and refinement.

Come on friends, who can resist this timeless charm?

The entire interior reflects the attention to detail and comfort that characterized luxury cars in the early 1960s.

 

A 1960 CORVETTE IN UNUSUAL COLOUR

1960 Corvette - Top 10 of the Best Syracuse Nationals 2024 custom cars by Lemire Auto Media

The 1960 Corvette show a classic elegance and European style that would make even the greatest fashion icons blush. With her graceful curves and retro charm, she could easily be the star of a 1960s Hollywood movie. This beauty doesn’t just roll from point A to point B, she dances softly on the road with a sophistication that says "Look at me, I’m the embodiment of high class."

THE CAR IN DETAILS

The body is painted in light blue or pastel, a color that highlights the fluid lines and curves of the car.

The wheels are equipped with chrome-plated wheel covers mounted on body-coloured rims, a factory specification on the 1960 Corvette. The whole thing is equipped with white wall tires, adding a touch of sophistication and nostalgia.

The interior of the car is illuminated by its bright red color, contrasting nicely with the exterior color.

 

A 1961 FORD GALAXIE EQUIPPED TO HAVE FUN LATE AT NIGHT!

1961 Ford Galaxie Streamliner - Top 10 of the Best Syracuse Nationals 2024 custom cars by Lemire Auto Media

This classic 1960 Ford Galaxie Streamliner stands out for its elegant look and timeless design... typical of the early 1960s. It’s as if she had traveled back in time without a single scratch. With her sophisticated style, she seems ready to walk the red carpet... of black bitumen from the acceleration tracks. In short, this beauty rides with the power of a speed racing queen, proud of her heritage and eternal charm.

THE CAR IN DETAILS
The shiny black body is accentuated by clean lines and chrome detailing, giving it a sophisticated and imposing appearance. The wheels are black with small chrome cover, adding a touch of minimalist retro style while maintaining a robust look.

The interior of the car is red, providing a striking contrast with the black exterior that is very fashionable these days. The seats are well rounded, suggesting optimal comfort for passengers.

The open hood reveals an impressive 520 cubic inch engine. This massive engine called BOSS 520 refers to a prototype Mustang developed in 1969 by Kar Kraft, is equipped with several carburettors, indicating considerable power and high performance on the quarter mile. The engine components are well maintained and shiny, reflecting the care and attention given to this 1961 Ford Galaxie.

This Ford captures the beauty and power of a well-preserved classic car, showcasing both its aesthetic and mechanical performance.

 

A BUICK RIVIERA WITH LS3 WILDCAT ENGINE - CIRCA 1963

Circa 1963 Buick Riviera - Top 10 of the Best Syracuse Nationals 2024 custom cars by Lemire Auto Media

This custom 1963 Buick Riviera is like James Bond merged with Tony Stark. It boasts a classic yet ultra-modern look, thanks to its LS3 engine that roars like an angry lion and its large rims with finely carved bevel rays giving a lesson in style at every curve.

THE CAR IN DETAILS

The Riviera has a flawless silver finish and its well-restored black vintage interior, combining vintage charm with improved performance with an LS3 engine called Wildcat.

The elegant and sleek style dashboard is dominated by dark colors, mainly black and grey metal parts, which gives an impression of elegance.

The black steering wheel is adorned with chrome accents The dashboard has several circular gages, performance indicators. The black leather seats add a touch of luxury and comfort.

 

A 1966 HEAVILY MODIFIED CHEVY II WITH LS7 ENGINE

1966 Chevrolet Chevy II - Top 10 of the Best Syracuse Nationals 2024 custom cars by Lemire Auto Media

The 1967 Chevy II, large road on high heels chrome, has been reworked with a GM LS7 engine growling loud and loud its high performance. Her two-tone paint, white in the lower part and dark red in the upper bodywork, gives the impression that she is wearing a gala outfit to impress everyone at a fashion show.

THE CAR IN DETAILS
The interior of the Chevy II is as impressive as its exterior. The seats are covered in cream leather in 2 tones, matching the door panels. The dashboard, painted in the same contrasting red from the outside, is embellished with modernised dials and oval-shaped chrome-edged vents.

A custom steering wheel with slightly curved centre and 3 double chrome spokes adds a touch of sophistication. The circle around the driving wheel is covered with a material reproducing the snake skin, adds a classic and personalized touch. The console between the front seats, extending to the rear, has additional controls and compartments.

The car is equipped with chrome wheels with 5 double-spoke arched wheels mounted on low profile tires. With its lowered pace the car shows a more aggressive look. This car combines vintage charm with modern power of the LS7 engine, perfectly illustrating the restoration and modification of automobiles.

A NAUGHTY CHEVELLE 1968 WITH 502 ENGINE

1968 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 502 - Top 10 of the Best Syracuse Nationals 2024 custom cars by Lemire Auto Media

The 1968 Chevelle, a real road monster, has a roaring 502 engine with its 508 horsepower and 580 lb-ft of torque. Designed for classic and performance car enthusiasts, this engine combines power, reliability and durability, perfect for dominating the asphalt of roads and race tracks.

THE CAR IN DETAILS

The car has a black metallic body, wide low profile high performance tires, mounted on custom large diameter wheels composed of 5 double "Y" shaped spoke. The interior coloured red leather, contrasts with the black exterior, that Mecum Auctions buyers look for.

Some pieces that are usually chrome plated, are in the same black body color, giving her this evil look. The car combines vintage design and modern restomod improvements.

A MUSTANG MACH 1 1971 SAGELY NASTY

1971 Ford Mustang Mach 1 Restomod - Top 10 of the Best Syracuse Nationals 2024 custom cars by Lemire Auto Media

A 1971 Ford Mustang Mach 1 immediately catches the eye with its immaculate white bodywork. The car is decorated with red decorative stripes on the sides and hood. The 5 double spokes chromed wheels with large diameter give this Mach 1 a modern restomod style while respecting its classic design.

THE CAR IN DETAILS

Under the hood, a mechanical marvel is revealed, a modern 5-litre Edelbrock engine, a powerful and sophisticated upgrade compared to the original engine. The interior is a highlight, with bright red leather seats and matching details for a luxurious, sporty look.

The open driver’s door reveals even more the careful details of the interior, such as the interior doors, steering wheel and safety-wheel, adding to the nostalgic and prestigious aura of this exceptional Mustang.

A CUSTOMISED PONTIAC TRANS AM 1981, EXHIBITED AT SEMA

1981 Pontiac Trans Am Restomod - Top 10 of the Best Syracuse Nationals 2024 custom cars by Lemire Auto Media

The customised 1981 Pontiac Trans Am, nicknamed the Viral 81, made a splash at the SEMA Show in 2021. With its bright orange yellow paint called “Sweet & Sour”, it certainly won’t go unnoticed! The dark grey of the body subtly evokes the 10th anniversary 1979 Trans Am, a stylish nod to its heritage. It’s like she said "Look at me, I’m both vintage and avant-garde!"

THE CAR IN DETAILS
It is equipped with a LS3 engine coupled to a T56 Super Magnum transmission. The car features a distinctive body kit with pronounced aerodynamic elements such as reworked rear spoiler, modern black matt wheels of large diameter in a vintage honeycomb pattern, equipped with performance tires. Improvements are added to the interior such as the addition of orange parts and a rolling cage among others.

This car is an example of automotive customization initially restored in 1994, then remade to the taste of the son with more modern choices, attracting enthusiasts and industry professionals at its exhibition at the SEMA show in 2021.

 

THE LAST VROOM

And here we are, friends, we finish this thrilling list of the top 15 of the most beautiful cars of the Syracuse Nationals 2024!

If you scratch your head asking "Where are the trucks?"

 

Don’t panic!

They didn’t break down on the road going to the event, we’re saving the top 10 trucks for another special article coming up. Stay tuned, because it will also purr loud!


OTHER COOL ARTICLES TO CHECK OUT

More links to modified events and car articles posted in 2024!



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about lemire auto media'S EDITOR

Alain Lemire

Since 2014 from Laval, Canada, Alain Lemire has managed a specialized website that shows his passion about classic, modern, and exotic cars and write about their history.

 

An image creator specialist

As a photographer and automotive portraitist, he uses his artistic knowledge to create stunning images restoring the ambiance of a world-class nationals US events, prestigious Concours d'Élégance, and auto shows.

 

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An invitation is made for you to fill the Lemire Auto Media newsletter inscription form on this page footer and follow when new articles on events, private vehicles, and museums related to his passions while on various trips will be published.