Barris Kustom’s 1955 Chevrolet Aztec Hot Rod Is Undeniably Bonkers

A prized 1955 Chevrolet ‘Aztec’ is being auctioned off by Mecum Auctions and while this particular car may be unfamiliar to many readers, it does have an interesting history behind it.

The story of this Chevrolet starts when it was purchased new in 1955 by 26-year-old Bill Carr. Carr was a close friend of George Barris who owned Barris Kustom and the duo soon started to customize the vehicle, including shaving off the emblems and ornaments from the hood and trunk.

Before long, the car’s suspension had been lowered, distinctive scoops were added above the headlights, new fender skirts were fitted, and the car received new Packard taillights.

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Not satisfied, Carr got in contact with an experienced sheetmetal worker by the name of Bill DeCarr (no relation) who had worked at Barris Kustom for a number of years. The car was ultimately adorned with all-new body panels and quad headlights from a 1957 Mercury Turnpike Cruiser were also fitted. Other alterations made included a pair of 1953 Studebaker lower grille pans.

The car was displayed at a series of events shortly after being completed, including at the Custom Car d’Elegance where it claimed 1st place. It was also displayed at the 1959 Detroit Autorama before being purchased by the current owner in 1990 who commissioned a five-year restoration on the car that was completed in 1999.

This restoration helped return the exterior to near-new condition. Additionally, extensive work was done throughout the cabin with white and orange upholstery adorning almost every surface.