73rd Sacramento Autorama: 500 Custom Builds and Record-Breaking Awards

Packed with Over 500 Custom Vehicles

The O’Reilly Auto Parts Sacramento Autorama at Cal Expo is one of the world’s longest-running indoor car shows, and the 73rd event did not disappoint by showcasing over 500 custom vehicles and offering more than 400 individual awards.

The Autorama is known for celebrating the finest custom cars and trucks in the U.S., and this year was no exception. The prestigious Custom d’Elegance award went to Cliff Mattis for his breathtaking 1957 Chevrolet convertible. Built by Lucky 7 Customs, this beauty features handcrafted copper trim, a Roadster Shop chassis, and an elegant leather interior by Gabe Lopez. Cliff’s win earned him $5,000, courtesy of ARP Fasteners. If you’re interested in seeing photos of this winning car, head over to Motortopia.com and search “Autorama.”

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New for 2024, the show introduced the World’s Most Beautiful Lowrider award, which went to Carlos Martinez’s stunning 1964 Chevrolet Impala convertible, known as “Indigenous Angel.” The lilac-painted lowrider captivated judges with its intricate engraving, custom wheels, and spectacular murals by Tim Lowery.

The West Coast Challenge Car Show Series, presented by ARP Fasteners, crowned Brent Schieder’s 1937 Ford Cabriolet as the Grand Champion. Competing against top-notch entries from California, Oregon, and Washington, Brent took home a $12,500 prize. The second and third place finishers, Scott Cooper with his 1970 Chevy El Camino and Gary Holyoak with his 1932 Ford Roadster pickup, received $6,500 and $3,500, respectively.

The show also featured the historic “Big B Awards.” Dave Zocchi won the H.A. Bagdasarian World’s Most Beautiful Custom Award for his immaculate 1936 Ford. The Sam Barris Memorial Award went to Gary Stell Jr.’s 1951 Mercury, while John D’Agostino’s 1941 Cadillac designed by Oz Welch won the Joe “Candy Apple Red” Bailon Memorial Award. Finally, the Dick Bertolucci Automotive Excellence Award was awarded to Brent Schieder’s 1937 Ford Cabriolet for its top-notch craftsmanship.

One of the heartwarming moments was Sunday’s Pinstriper Charity Auction, raising nearly $10,000 for the UC Davis Children’s Hospital.

The Sacramento Autorama continues to be a celebration of automotive excellence, and this year’s event was a testament to the passion and creativity of car builders and enthusiasts alike. For more information and a complete list of winners, visit Rodshows.com.

One of the heartwarming moments was Sunday’s Pinstriper Charity Auction, raising nearly $10,000 for the UC Davis Children’s Hospital.

The Sacramento Autorama continues to be a celebration of automotive excellence, and this year’s event was a testament to the passion and creativity of car builders and enthusiasts alike.