BOASTING a unique parrot beak-shaped bonnet, this “toxic” 1938 Ford Deluxe four-door sedan turns heads while cruising Limestone Coast streets.
Owners Ken and Linda McKenzie first purchased the vehicle in 2016 as “bits and pieces” from a family member.
Mr McKenzie believes the vehicle was first rebuilt in 1970 and was then bought by his sister-in-law in 1991.
“She used it for a bit but took it off the road in 1995 for it to be repainted a maroon colour,” he said.
“It was pulled apart and was never put back together until we purchased it.
“We have been working on it ever since and it still is not completed yet.”
Mr McKenzie said the car was previously painted bright yellow with green flames.
“I am excited to ring the previous owner and find out some more information about it,” he said.
“A lot of people knew the car back then and it did a lot of miles.
“After, it just sat in the shed and we ended up with it.”
The now Toxic Green-coloured vehicle features a 283ci Chevrolet with a two-speed power-glide transmission, which is “virtually stock” according to Mr McKenzie.
“It is not a show car but more so just a cruising car which likes to attend a few events around the place,” the car enthusiast said.
“The Blue Lake Nationals was its first event last year and we had it finished the Friday before the event.
“It also went to the 2019 Naracoorte Swap Meet for its longest trip so far and took out top hot rod.”
The car’s front-end suspension features HK Holden crossmember mounting, P76 disc brakes and a XW Ford steering box and column.
The hot road’s rear end is fitted with a XW differential and leaf springs, as well as 15×7 front and 15×8.5 rear wheels.
Mr McKenzie said the car has been heavily modified, with a major feature the four-inch (100mm) roof chop.
“When it is out, people mostly comment on the colour and how low it sits,” he said.
“It has a bit of a windy-noise inside the cabin but otherwise it sits on the road nicely and it is lovely to drive.”
Other modifications include complete removal of exterior stainless trim, shaven off boot lid, lights and badges, recessed taillights, fitted air-conditioning, tinted windows, bucket seats and a complete custom exhaust system.
Mr McKenzie thanked his son Scott for helping him work on the car with the interior still needing to be trimmed.
Mr and Ms McKenzie are both members of the Lake City Rod and Custom Club and enjoy attending functions and events.
“I have always wanted a hot rod and have been involved with the club since 1991 so now I have one,” Mr McKenzie said.
“Our ambition is to attend the Perth nationals and drive across.
“Nothing has fallen off it yet so I can not see why we would not make it.”
Mr McKenzie said he also likes the four-door aspect of the car with ease-of-access for his grandchildren.
“They like going for a drive in the car and were the reason behind why it has Hot Wheels badges,” he said.
“They are original badges which came from America only because my grandson thought the car resembled his Hot Wheels toys cars.
“All the kids around town know the vehicle as a Hot Wheels car now.”
