Get ready for an incredible competition at the event! Witness the excitement with a pair of terrifying BMW bubble cars and an MGB GT powered by Jaguar. Winner will definitely suprise you with its futuristic video game theme.
finalists for the Hot Wheels Legends Tour 2023
Discover the finalists of the Hot Wheels annual Legends Tour before checking out the winner. Founded to showcase custom car builders’ creations, the Legends Tour has become a renowned platform. As one of the largest traveling auto exhibits globally, it attracts competitors from around the world.
Michael Wallhead and his MG “B-EAST” (ENGLAND)
Michael’s remarkable journey crafting his MGB GT took over eight years, with a focus on sustainability.
This unique vehicle incorporates parts from seemingly unconventional sources, such as a 3.0-liter AJV6 engine from a Jaguar, a prop shaft from an old Range Rover, an axle from a Reliant Scimitar, and brakes from a Nissan Silvia S14. The seat covering is ingeniously fashioned from old jeans, and the throttle bodies are repurposed from a Triumph motorbike.
Thibault Lagardere and his “Golgoth I” (France)
The poetic craftsmanship of this amazing-looking machine constructed in Le Mans, France.
Thibaut’s extraordinary design, named the “Golgoth I,” crafted from an aviation tank and enhanced with a V8 flathead engine and free-flowing exhaust. Drawing inspiration from post-war machines, especially those used for beach racing, this creation embodies a unique blend of style and performance.
The BMW 2002 by Philip Jager (Germany)
Perfect transformation by swapping in a BMW M5 bi-turbo V8 engine for an overlooked BMW 2002 Tii Touring.
This can be a strong contender for the Legends Tour crown, as Philip’s 2002 secures victory in this year’s German leg of the qualifications. Despite being nearly 50 years old, Philip transformed this classic automobile into an impressive drifting machine.
David Sebastian and his Nissan Juke (Indonesia)
Unique manual gearbox and 450bhp engine is what is needed for racing.
David’s extraordinary creation, modeled after Juke racing vehicles from the DTM series and the Japan Grand Touring Championship. Fitted with a distinctive manual gearbox and a powerful 450bhp engine, this car is tailored for racing enthusiasts. In the realm of Juke, David emerges as a formidable figure, showcasing his herculean presence in the racing scene.
Daihatsu Hijet by Samuel Lechowicz (Poland)
The precise “car” that serves as the foundation for the Legends Tour.
A unique and thrilling way to elevate your sense of adventure: the 1985 Daihatsu Hijet featuring a motorbike mounted in the back instead of its original engine. Samuel’s innovative approach required extensive modifications, including a bespoke floor and a completely redesigned suspension system.
Porsche 928S Pickup by Juan Carlos (Mexico)
Witness the transformation by Juan Carlos, as he defies convention by tearing up the blueprint of the 1980 Porsche 928S.
With a singular focus on converting it into a pickup, Juan Carlos brings a unique vision to life. Juan can now ride the 928 with two bikes, two surfboards, a foilboard, and a slalom ski thanks to the alteration. When things get rough, a full-length skid plate, a specially made roll cage, and new off-road tyres all work together to give it an advantage. We would adore to see it attempt a trip to the North Pole.
1981 Chevrolet Camaro by Michael Scire (Georgia, USA)
This unique variant is equipped with a hand-built 350 cubic-inch LT engine and a custom-designed exhaust setup.
The second-generation model’s impressive features, including an 18-inch reduction in total body length. Michael Scire, who acquired this 1981 Chevrolet Camaro at the age of 15, adding a sentimental touch to this year’s finalists. Over the past eighteen years, Michael has dedicated numerous hours to refining his beloved Camaro. In a remarkable decision, he chose to join the Legends Tour this year, adding a new chapter to the legacy of his cherished vehicle.
Mercedes-Benz 300D by David Almanzan (Texas, USA)
Wider wheel arches to enclose all-terrain tires and a suspension raise package. That’s something we don’t see everyday with Merc 300D.
In the last few years, David, an automotive technology school instructor, engaged over 260 pupils in shaping the design of the Mercedes 300D through seminars centered around this unique project. Notable modifications, such as wider wheel arches embracing all-terrain tires and a suspension raise package, reflect a nod to the car’s robust rallying heritage. One can’t help but appreciate its resilience, probably okay even with the occasional pothole.
BMW Isetta twins by Michael Brown (Arizona, USA)
Concluding the list are two distinctive BMW bubble cars that have charted divergent paths for themselves.
First up is ‘Big Dill,’ a 1957 BMW Isetta dragster featuring a formidable 1,200cc Harley-Davidson Shovelhead engine. Meanwhile, positioned farther back is “Pickle Jar,” a 230 Chevrolet Isetta with a straight-six engine, serving primarily as Big Dill’s transport. These two unique vehicles embody an automotive counterpart to the eccentricity of rag dolls Chucky and Tiffany, making them a standout duo in the automotive world. Explore the intriguing stories behind ‘Big Dill’ and ‘Pickle Jar’ as they carve their own exceptional routes.
HOT WHEELS LEGENDS TOUR WINNER – ‘The Cyberpunk’ by Chris Watson (New Zealand)
Japanese icon into something reminiscent of a Back to the Future reboot.
Drawing inspiration from the futuristic video game of the same name, Chris Watson’s ‘Cyberpunk’ transforms a 1990 Mazda MX-5 with a stylish “light refresh.” Notable changes include a new rear light bar, a sleek shark fin spoiler, 15-inch turbofan wheels, and an airbrushed finish.
The winning vehicle is then immortalised as a 1:64-scale model. Getting there wasn’t simple considering that Jay Leno was leading the panel of auto fans who would judge them. Congratulations to Chris Watson for crafting an extraordinary and impressive creation that has caught the attention of Hot Wheels Legends Tour fans.
Source: 10 finalists for this year’s Hot Wheels Legends Tour