Hey automotive enthusiasts, are you familiar with Dave Kindig? He's undoubtedly one of the most accomplished auto technicians, TV personalities, and entrepreneurs out there, gaining widespread recognition through the popular reality TV show "Bitchin' Rides." His bold and distinctive designs have left an indelible mark on the world of automotive restoration.
Excitingly, you can now acquire his skills and insider knowledge at the newly established Kindig Academy in Denver, Colorado, hosted by Lincoln Tech. This is a groundbreaking opportunity, as Dave Kindig is a trailblazer in offering such classes.
The 1947 Cadillac - Plum Wicked
One of Dave Kindig's Impressive Car Collection
Now, let's delve into Dave Kindig's exclusive car collection. Allow us to introduce you to a stunning piece – the 1947 Cadillac convertible, aptly named "Plum Wicked." This name pays homage to its mesmerizing purple color and the powerful engine tucked beneath its hood. Although it packs more power than one might typically expect in a car of this style, it's a testament to Dave's mastery. Originally crafted for cruising and impressing in high school, "Plum Wicked" has since transformed into a masterpiece.
One of Dave Kindig's Impressive Car Collection
The Blue Suede Shoes - 59 Buick Invicta
One of Dave Kindig's Impressive Car Collection
This is a custom 1959 Buick Invicta hardtop, famously known as "Blue Suede Shoes." It stands as one of the most ambitious design projects undertaken to date, requiring 16 to 18 months, 13,000 man-hours, and an investment of $715,000 to reach completion.
One of Dave Kindig's Impressive Car Collection
Distinguished by its exceptional interior and an array of custom features, this masterpiece boasts coilover shocks, a tubular independent front suspension, and a four-link rear suspension. Under its hood resides a supercharged 6.2-liter LSA V8 engine, meticulously finished to harmonize with the hood's contours and evoke the look of an original Buick nail head. Additionally, this V8 powerhouse is coupled with a GM performance 4L80E automatic transmission.
The vehicle retains its iconic large rear fins, accentuating the classic lines of the Invicta. Exterior enhancements include a custom cast-molded grille, seamlessly integrated bumpers that meld into the body, and ingeniously incorporated door handles within the side trim. The one-of-a-kind Evod wheels, featuring wide whitewall tires, round out the striking appearance.
One of Dave Kindig's Impressive Car Collection
Moreover, the fully customized interior is a testament to craftsmanship and luxury, adorned with opulent Blue Suede and blue leather. Hand-cut lacing in tool leather by JS Interior in Salt Lake City adds a unique touch of artistry.
1964 Cadillac Coupe DeVille
One of Dave Kindig's Impressive Car Collection
Can you estimate the length of this 1964 Cadillac Coupe DeVille? Well, it extends beyond 18 feet, giving it a truly imposing presence. This graceful Cadillac is a noteworthy accomplishment and is in the possession of the globally renowned Olympic speed skater Apolo Ohno.
This fully customized creation stands as a genuine masterpiece and is counted among Dave Kindig's most exceptional works. It was painstakingly crafted over the course of 12 months, culminating in its completion in 2011. While it possessed inherent iconic charm and sophistication, several enhancements were meticulously incorporated. The frame rails were carefully smoothed and reinforced, receiving custom trailing arms as an upgrade. The inclusion of a comprehensive set of RideTech air ride components not only imparts a striking lowered appearance when parked but also ensures a remarkably smooth and comfortable ride when in motion.
One of Dave Kindig's Impressive Car Collection
Beneath the hood, the original engine gave way to a fuel-injected Ramjet 502, delivering a blend of formidable power and reliability. To provide the necessary stopping force for this 18-foot luxury caddy, Wilwood six-piston 16-inch disc brakes were expertly installed.
Turning our attention to the interior, it underwent an extensive customization process. A tailored dashboard featuring a gauge cluster was created to pay tribute to Apolo Ohno's illustrious Olympic career. A custom aluminum bezel was crafted with precision, plated in chrome, and outfitted with Dakota digital gauges. The outcome is a sequence of five interlocking openings that strikingly resemble the Olympic rings.
One of Dave Kindig's Impressive Car Collection
The remainder of the interior is embellished with contoured foam and opulent storm white leather, a masterful creation by JS Custom Interiors. Custom-designed door panels were diligently fashioned to harmonize with the seating, ensuring a seamless and unified interior aesthetic.
Adding to its visual allure, the amplifiers in the trunk showcase intricate airbrushing, expertly executed by the renowned artist Steve Driscoll. This one-of-a-kind custom vehicle not only offers a visually captivating experience but also delivers a smooth and delightful driving experience, mirroring the grace Apolo Ohno displayed on the ice.
2009 Hummer H25 Concept
Next in line is the aggressive 2009 Hummer H25 Concept, boasting a GM LSA crate engine, a custom wide body kit, air ride suspension, and suicide doors all around, ensuring it commands attention wherever it goes.
This 2009 Hummer H25 has a remarkable history, as it made its appearance on "Bitchin' Rides" during Season 5. When it initially featured on the show, many believed there was limited room for modification. However, the Kindig team had a plethora of innovative ideas.
Their first move was to replace the original engine with an LSA crate GM Performance Engine, paired with a 6L90e transmission. On the audio front, they installed a Kicker L-78 sound system featuring IQI Subs. Additionally, the vehicle received a set of two-tone leather seats, flush handles, and unique Evod wheels, resulting in a fresh and updated appearance.
The 1934 Dodge Brothers sedan
The 1934 Dodge Brothers sedan is undeniably one of the most imposing cars ever to grace "Bitchin' Rides." This unconventional Dodge, which had been in ownership for over 64 years, underwent a remarkable transformation at Kindig Design.
The extensive modifications to this car included a one-piece hood, redesigned headlights, a flush-mounted canvas top, and custom Greening tail lights. Inside, the car received a significant interior upgrade, featuring a custom steering wheel and upholstery crafted from luxurious Glacier leather.
Under the hood and chassis, the car boasts a 5.7-liter Hemi engine from 2009, complete with eye-catching red Ram valve covers and a Mopar performance intake manifold. The power is channeled through a 545 or FE5-speed automatic transmission. The vehicle rides on a custom-built Art Morrison frame and features a triangulated four-link rear with a 9-inch rear end, all complemented by bespoke artillery wheels custom-made by Evod's, measuring 17 inches in the front and 18 inches in the rear.
This 1934 Dodge Brothers sedan represents a new pinnacle for high-end classic Hot Rods, demonstrating Kindig Design's expertise in enhancing a car's existing beauty without overpowering it, especially when dealing with a classic like this. Additionally, the four-door configuration adds a touch of sophistication, setting it apart from traditional hot rods and giving it an imposing street presence.
The 1939 GM Futurliner
The GM Futurliners were custom vehicles designed for General Motors by Harley Earl with an eye toward emerging technologies. The 39-foot long and more than 11-foot tall GM Futurliner was initially used as a promotional caravan in GM's Parade of Progress.
When the Futurliner came to "Bitchin' Rides," David Kindig and his crew gave the car a complete restoration. They restored the Futurliner from 2013 to 2014. It took 22 months and over 37,000 hours to complete.
Body Modifications and Paint: Completely restored back to original, including all motors that raise and lower all doors. Reproduced to original specs. Aluminum panels all around the perimeter. Restored all lettering.
Wheels and Tires: Coker reproduction Parade of Progress wide white tires. Original rims and hubcaps.
Brakes: Air over hydraulic brakes.
Engine and Chassis: All original restored chassis and axles. Number matching 1950 GMC 302 CI D6 cylinder gasoline engine. Hydromatic automatic transmission with splitter.
58 Lincoln Continental Maybellene
Now, let's take a look at "Maybellene," a striking 1958 Lincoln Continental. Powered by a supercharged 6.2-liter LSX 454 crate motor and boasting custom wheels and a captivating red leather interior, it's a genuine head-turner.
This car is undeniably attention-grabbing, whether or not it aligns with your personal taste; it's the kind of vehicle that commands your gaze. Starting with its incredibly distinct body design, the 1958 Lincoln Continental convertible, lovingly referred to as "Maybelline," has undergone an extensive transformation, resulting in a presentation that can only be described as exquisite.
It boasts impressive features, including 16-inch Wilwood brakes and a six-way adjustable suspension system provided by AccuAir. Beneath the hood resides a formidable Ryan Falconer-built 600 CI V12 engine, conservatively rated at 1000 horsepower. Nestled between the front rails, this fully customized V12 engine proudly sports a twin Magnuson supercharger, complemented by meticulously crafted stainless steel headers and an exhaust system featuring a convenient push-button single exhaust cutout for bypassing the Borla mufflers.
The car's body has undergone a substantial makeover, with the massive bumpers tucked in and the stock rear quarters replaced. Countless hours were undoubtedly invested in perfecting the body, which now boasts a sleek coat of Kindig Teal Later paint, giving it a modern classic appearance. The taillight panel has been uniquely outfitted with custom LED lights, mirroring the polished stainless steel construction of the rear grille. Up front, the grille maintains its flawless, straight, and bright finish, while adhering to the Hot Rod Lincoln theme, the hood has been elevated with an acrylic bubble that proudly showcases the twin supercharged engine. Without a doubt, it stands as a true masterpiece.
These are just a few of the exceptional cars in Dave Kindig's collection, each with its own unique narrative and style. Do you have a favorite among them? Let us know in the comments!
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