Check out Jay Leno's hot rod tribute car.
The hot rod boom of the 1950s saw many creative builds, including a one-off 1959 Troy Roadster built by auto dealer Wally Troy. Wisconsin-based 7fifteen Motorworks is currently producing a limited-edition tribute car based on the Troy Roadster, a project that recently caught the eye of Jay Leno.
After seeing the tribute car, dubbed the 7fifteen Motorworks Troy Indy Special, at a car show, Leno invited co-owner John Kendall to "Jay Leno's Garage."
This open-wheel special combines the look of the 1959 Troy Roadster with modern components. This includes tires, which are considerably wider than the originals, giving this tribute car a hunched-over stance.
Like all original Troy Roadsters, this tribute car features aluminum body panels designed using 3D scans of the original car. The original car's solid axles and drum brakes have been replaced by independent pushrod suspension front and rear and Wilwood disc brakes.
True to the original car's Chevrolet V-8 engine, the tribute car is powered by a General Motors LS3 6.2-liter V-8 engine that produces 495 hp and 486 lb-ft of torque (with a 525 hp upgrade available). The rear wheels are driven via a six-speed manual transmission and limited-slip differential taken from the Cadillac CTS-V.
The Troy Indy Special was designed to be driven on public roads, but with minimal exterior lighting and an open cockpit, it would be limited to good weather.
Production of 33 units is planned, with a base price of $195,000. This buys an intuitive driving experience, a unique look, and Jay Leno's endorsement.