James Hetfield, the legendary frontman of Metallica, isn’t just known for his earth-shattering riffs and commanding stage presence. Beyond the music, lies a profound passion for automotive artistry, transforming mere vehicles into rolling sculptures. His garage, now generously shared with the world, is a testament to this devotion, showcasing a collection that rivals the intensity and creativity of his iconic music.
Unlike many collectors who simply acquire stunning automobiles, Hetfield takes a distinctly hands-on approach. He envisions a classic car and then embarks on a journey to build it from scratch, collaborating with some of America’s top custom car builders. This results in an entirely bespoke collection, each car a unique reflection of his vision, blending hot rod culture with rock ‘n’ roll soul. It truly proves that classic metal can manifest in more ways than one.
This extraordinary collection, aptly named “Reclaimed Rust: The James Hetfield Collection,” has found a permanent home at the Petersen Automotive Museum. This allows enthusiasts and fans alike to admire these masterpieces up close. It’s a journey through custom metalwork, art deco styling, and sheer automotive genius, all born from Hetfield’s unique perspective, where cars are seen as forms of freedom and expression, conveying their creator’s passions. Let’s rev up and dive into some of the most iconic machines from this incredible collection.
1. **1936 Auburn ‘Slow Burn’**Ah, the ‘Slow Burn’ – the undisputed crown jewel of James Hetfield’s incredible collection. This 1936 Auburn Boattail Speedster is an experience, a harmonious blend of elegance and raw power that stops you in your tracks. Inspired by Glenn Pray’s fiberglass recreation of the 1936 Auburn 852 Speedster, James fell head over heels for its unique customization potential. As he perfectly put it, “I love the customization,” a sentiment truly understood when witnessing this beauty.
Rick Dore Kustoms truly outdid themselves with this one. Dore was responsible for redesigning the car’s exterior, handcrafting most of the panels before applying a sleek two-tone paint job. The original roof was removed, replaced by a sloped convertible top in a pristine white, perfectly matching the whitewall tires and enhancing its stunning lines. The two-tone scheme includes a deep Root Beer Brown, a respectful nod to the foundational days of hot rodding, blending history with Hetfield’s personal flair. Inside, luxurious Egyptian leather upholstery and custom-designed gauges maintain an original, vintage look, ensuring cohesive artistry.
But don’t let the breathtaking aesthetics fool you; this Auburn isn’t just for show. Beneath that exquisite exterior lies a powerful 350-cubic-inch ZZ4 Ford crate motor, ensuring it has the ‘go’ to match its ‘show’. It sits proudly on a RideTech air suspension and rolls on custom 15-inch wheels, giving it that perfect, aggressive stance while retaining its inherent grace. The ‘Slow Burn’ is a prime example of breathing new life into timeless classics, a centerpiece that tells a story of passion, precision, and a relentless pursuit of perfection.
Car Model Information: 2020 RAM 1500 Laramie
Name: Auburn Speedster
Caption: 1935 Auburn Boattail Speedster 851
Manufacturer: Auburn Automobile
Assembly: Auburn, Indiana,Union City, Indiana
Production: 1925–1937
Designer: Gordon Buehrig
BodyStyle: Roadster (automobile)
Engine: Lycoming Engines
Transmission: Three speed manual with synchromesh on second and third ratios in ‘high’
Length: convert
Width: convert
Weight: convert
Categories: All articles needing additional references, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles needing additional references from August 2012, Articles needing additional references from December 2020, Articles with short description
Summary: The Auburn Speedster is an American car, manufactured by the Auburn Automobile Company of Auburn, Indiana and manufactured in Union City, Indiana. A total of 887 cars were manufactured between 1928 and 1936, across 3 series (1928-1930 with “eight” and “big eight” engines, 8 cylinder 1931-1933, 12 cylinder 1932-1934, and the dramatic, iconic 1935-36 Supercharged 8). The first two series were designed by stylist Alan Leamy. The Auburn 851 Speedster of 1935 was styled by designer Gordon Buehrig, who also was responsible for the Cord Model 810. Al Jenkins broke 70 American speed records in the 1935 car.
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Brand: Auburn Model: Boattail Speedster
Price: $36,995 Mileage: 64,342 mi.
2. **1932 Ford Roadster ‘Blackjack’**Next up, we admire the 1932 Ford Roadster, famously dubbed ‘Blackjack.’ This isn’t just another custom build; it’s a true masterpiece, a meticulous restoration with subtle hot rod sensibilities, proving that not everything needs a radical overhaul to be iconic. Crafted by Josh Mills in Marietta, this car has a fascinating origin story, pieced together from junkyard treasures and barn finds. The team hand-built harder-to-find parts, achieving a flawless, bolt-correct restoration.
What makes ‘Blackjack’ truly stand out in Hetfield’s collection is its understated elegance. While many of his cars are heavily modified, this Roadster takes a different path. Hetfield himself confirmed that the car is almost a complete stock restoration, declaring the original car was “difficult to improve.” It’s a bold statement that speaks volumes about the inherent beauty of the ’32 Ford design, a true classic that needed little enhancement to shine. The aesthetic is pure vintage cool, boasting a striking dark brown finish with a glossy black lower half, complemented by a hand-crafted custom white top.
Hetfield’s philosophy behind this build is particularly insightful: “what would it be like if some kid from the ’40s got ahold of his dad’s old car and wanted to hot rod it?” This perspective imbues ‘Blackjack’ with a unique character, blending historical authenticity with the rebellious spirit of early hot rodding. Under the hood, he only specified “it had to be a flathead.” This dedication to authenticity and craftsmanship earned ‘Blackjack’ the title of America’s Most Beautiful Roadster in 2017. For Hetfield, it remains his most cherished car, a quiet reflection of his profound appreciation for the roots of both rock and hot rods.
Car Model Information: 1929 Ford Roadster
Caption: 1932 Ford Model B Standard Tudor 2-door sedan
Name: 1932 Ford Model B
Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Production: 1932–1934
Predecessor: Ford Model A (1927–1931)
Successor: Ford Model 48
Class: Full-size Ford
BodyStyle: phaeton body,Pickup truck
Engine: 201 cuin
Abbr: on
Transmission: Non-synchronous transmission,Manual transmission
Wheelbase: 2692 mm
Disp: flip
Layout: FR layout
Assembly: see list below
Related: Ford Model Y,Ford Köln,Ford Rheinland,GAZ-M1
Designer: Edsel Ford
Categories: 1930s cars, All articles needing additional references, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles needing additional references from January 2021, Articles with short description
Summary: The term 1932 Ford may refer to three models of automobile produced by Ford Motors between 1932 and 1934: the Model B, the Model 18, and the Model 40. These succeeded the Model A. The Model B had an updated four-cylinder engine and was available from 1932 to 1934. The Model 18 was the first Ford fitted with the flathead V-8, and it was available in the Model 40 too in 1933 and 1934. The company also replaced the Model AA truck with the Model BB, available with either the four- or eight-cylinder engine.
The three car models were replaced by the streamlined Model 48 in 1935.
Get more information about: 1932 Ford
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Brand: Ford Model: Roadster
Price: $39,980 Mileage: 500 mi.
3. **1952 Buick Skylark ‘Skyscraper’**From the subtle sophistication of ‘Blackjack’ we shift gears to the vibrant, rock ‘n’ roll flair of the 1952 Buick Skylark, affectionately christened ‘Skyscraper’ by James Hetfield. This car holds a special place, being James’s very first commission with the legendary Rick Dore at RD Kustoms, marking a phenomenal creative partnership. Inspired by Buick’s own factory sketches and built upon the robust Roadmaster, the ‘Skyscraper’ takes a classic American luxury car and infuses it with undeniable rockstar charisma.
The transformation is immediately apparent: a drastically chopped and lowered roof gives it a sleek, smooth silhouette, exuding a modern edge without sacrificing vintage charm. Badging was removed, the front bumper smoothed, and various tweaks accentuated the car’s shape. Wrapped in a deep, glossy purple paint, it instantly signals this isn’t your average Buick. The design truly radiates true American vibes. The interior mirrors the exterior’s purple hue, but what makes it truly unique are the musical-inspired details: an accelerator pedal taken from a bass drum, and gauges cleverly shaped like Fender guitar picks. It’s a rolling tribute to classic design and rock style.
The ‘Skyscraper’ wasn’t just about looks; it had to perform. The original powertrain was swapped for a potent 350-cubic-inch Chevrolet V8 engine, specifically to make it “go fast, like superfast, literally!” This blend of stunning aesthetics with serious performance is a hallmark of Hetfield’s collection. The Skylark isn’t typically seen in hot rod form, making Hetfield’s unusual request intriguing for Dore, who said, “When James asked me, I said, I’d love to do it. Who gets to do a Skylark?” This car embodies pushing boundaries, proving that even a refined classic can find its wild side.
Car Model Information: 1972 Buick Skylark Custom
Name: Buick Skylark
Caption: 1972 Buick Skylark
Manufacturer: Buick
ModelYears: 1953–1954,1961–1972,1975–1998
Layout: FR layout,Front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout
Successor: Buick Century
Categories: 1980s cars, 1990s cars, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles with short description, Articles with unsourced statements from June 2018
Summary: The Buick Skylark is a passenger car formerly produced by Buick. The model was made in six production runs, during 46 years, over which the car’s design varied dramatically due to changing technology, tastes, and new standards implemented over the years. It was named for the species of bird called skylark.
The Skylark name first appeared on a limited production luxury convertible using the Buick Roadmaster’s chassis for two years, then was reintroduced in 1961 as a higher luxury content alternative to the entry-level Buick Special on which the Skylark was based upon. It was then positioned as Buick’s luxury performance model when the Buick GSX was offered. As GM began downsizing during the late 1970s, the Skylark became the entry-level model when the Special nameplate was used as a trim package designation, then in the 1980s was offered as a front-wheel-drive vehicle where it was both a coupe and sedan for three different generations.
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Brand: Buick Model: Skylark
Price: $29,000 Mileage: 97,176 mi.
4. **1934 Packard ‘Aquarius’**Prepare to be mesmerized by the 1934 Packard ‘Aquarius,’ a car that truly stands out in James Hetfield’s collection, not just for its beauty, but for its audacious, teardrop hot rod design. This isn’t just a car; it’s a piece of art that seamlessly blends French styling from the Art Deco era with American hot rod influences, giving it a look that seems to have driven straight out of a 1930s dream. It’s a far cry from the original 1934 model, now transformed into an unparalleled masterpiece.
Inspired by the ethereal lines of the 1939 Delahaye 165, the ‘Aquarius’ is a collaborative triumph crafted by Rick Dore and his team, with Hetfield’s vision guiding every step. The bodywork itself is a marvel, custom-shaped aluminum meticulously formed by Marcel and Luc De Lay of Marcel’s Custom Metals. This bespoke coachbuilding resulted in a totally unique, one-off creation hailed as one of the most beautiful cars in the world. From its DuVall-style windshield to the exquisitely sculpted fenders and flowing, finned tail, every curve speaks of master craftsmanship. The car sits on a modified Morrison chassis with air suspension, allowing for that impossibly low, sleek stance.
Beneath that breathtaking exterior lies a modern beast. Unlike some of Hetfield’s other cars, the ‘Aquarius’ packs a powerful 6.2-liter LS3 V8 engine. That’s right, even a collector as particular as Hetfield couldn’t resist the allure of an LS swap, proving that beauty and beast can indeed go hand in hand. This engine ensures the ‘Aquarius’ isn’t just a stunning display piece but a formidable performer. The unique design allows the driver to sit almost on the floor, creating an incredibly immersive driving experience. The ‘Aquarius’ is a masterclass in coachbuilt design, a dynamic sculpture that turns heads long before it even sparks to life.
5. **1956 Ford F100 ‘Str8 Edge’**Now, let’s talk trucks! James Hetfield’s collection isn’t all sleek coupes and art deco cruisers; it also boasts serious muscle, exemplified by the formidable 1956 Ford F100, aptly named ‘Str8 Edge.’ This truck started life with a rather practical intention: James was looking to build himself a daily driver pickup. The donor was an old 1956 Ford F100 extended cab with a flatbed. But, as with all things Hetfield, “light mods and restoration” quickly evolved into something extraordinary.
The real challenge began when James and Scott Mugford from Blue Collar Customs started working on the body. The truck had unforeseen issues, and as these were fixed, the F100 began morphing from a humble daily driver into something far more show-stopping. The transformation included distinctive suicide doors, a precise 2.25-inch chop to the roof, 1960 Ford pickup headlights, and a striking 1960 Chrysler grille. The team hand-built the fenders, firewalls, and side skirts. A custom suicide hood and a unique tailgate were also fabricated, tying every element together perfectly.
Under the hood, the engine was reworked for more power by Rex Hutchinson Racing, and air suspension added for that perfect, aggressive stance. The truck was finished in a custom sparkling purple, a color that gives it a vibrant, yet tough, presence. Despite its new-found show car status, Scott Mugford claimed Hetfield would still get plenty of seat time in ‘Str8 Edge,’ confidently stating, “we know he’ll get in the thing and go 90 mph. He uses his stuff for sure.” The ‘Str8 Edge’ showcases Hetfield’s appreciation for workhorse trucks, injecting them with his signature custom flair, a true blend of vintage design and bespoke fabrication.
Car Model Information: 1964 Ford F100 Base
Name: Ford F-Series
Caption: 2022 Ford F-150 Lariat Luxury
Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Aka: Ford Lobo (Mexico, 1992–present)
Production: 1948–present
Class: Pickup truck#Full-size pickup truck
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout,rear-wheel drive
Predecessor: 1941 Ford
Categories: All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, All articles that may contain original research, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles that may contain original research from September 2020
Summary: The Ford F-Series is a series of light-duty trucks marketed and manufactured by the Ford Motor Company since model year 1948 as a range of full-sized pickup trucks — positioned between Ford’s Ranger and Super Duty pickup trucks. Alongside the F-150 (introduced in 1975), the F-Series also includes the Super Duty series (introduced in 1999), which includes the heavier-duty F-250 through F-450 pickups, F-450/F-550 chassis cabs, and F-600/F-650/F-750 Class 6–8 commercial trucks.
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Brand: Ford Model: F100
Price: $119,999 Mileage: 1,535 mi.
6. **1937 Lincoln Zephyr ‘Voodoo Priest’**Transitioning from trucks, prepare for a dose of sinister elegance with the 1937 Lincoln Zephyr, famously known as the ‘Voodoo Priest.’ This magnificent creation is yet another testament to the genius of Rick Dore and his team at RD Kustoms, breathing new life into what was once a dilapidated donor car. James Hetfield himself articulated the allure of this vehicle, stating, “We threw ’38 rear quarters on it because they were even longer and stretched that thing out… There is something about low and long and sleek that’s just beautiful.” And when you see the Voodoo Priest, you truly understand his words.
Its exterior is coated in a vibrant red, a hot rod style that’s both assertive and captivating. While the front received subtle tweaks, the rear underwent more extensive modifications, giving it that incredibly stretched-out, sleek silhouette. The chopped roof, combined with its flowing, smooth lines, exudes an undeniable sinister elegance, making it look as though it rolled straight out of an old black-and-white gangster flick, albeit one with a killer soundtrack.
The interior, much like the exterior, received a bespoke touch, featuring a striking white and red upholstery combination, with the rest of the cabin finished in gloss black. What makes this transformation truly remarkable is its origin story: this masterpiece once sat abandoned on a Sacramento driveway. Imagine the vision and dedication required to see the potential in a car that had spent so much of its life in disrepair.
Underneath that stunning bodywork, the ‘Voodoo Priest’ retains its original 4.4-liter flathead V12 engine. This powerhouse, capable of 110 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, was meticulously rebuilt by specialists to ensure it performed as spectacularly as it looked. It’s a harmonious blend of historical authenticity and modern performance, perfectly encapsulating Hetfield’s ethos.
This iconic hot rod is more than just a show car; it’s a well-traveled piece of automotive art. The ‘Voodoo Priest’ has graced exhibitions across continents, even journeying to Sweden for display in 2013 before spending time at a Ford dealer in Sacramento. It’s a rolling sculpture that commands attention wherever it goes, proving that even a car with a troubled past can achieve legendary status.
Car Model Information: 2006 Lincoln Zephyr Base
Name: Lincoln-Zephyr
Caption: Lincoln-Zephyr four-door sedan (1937)
Manufacturer: Lincoln Motor Company
Production: 1936–1942
Successor: Lincoln H-series
Class: Mid-size car,luxury car
BodyStyle: sedan (car)
Related: Lincoln Continental
Designer: Bob Gregorie
Assembly: Lincoln Assembly,Detroit,Michigan
Engine: 267 cid
Abbr: Flathead engine,Convert,Lincoln-Zephyr V12 engine
Url: http://www.oldcarbrochures.com/static/NA/Lincoln/1936_Lincoln/1936_Lincoln_Zephyr_Folder/1936%20Lincoln%20Zephyr-04.html
Title: standard catalog of American Cars 1805-1942
Publisher: Krause publications
AccessDate: 2011-12-31
cite book
Last: Kimes
First: Beverly
Year: 1996
Isbn: 0-87341-428-4
Wheelbase: Convert
Length: Convert
Height: Convert
Transmission: manual transmission
Categories: All articles to be expanded, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles to be expanded from June 2025, Articles with short description, Articles with unsourced statements from January 2017
Summary: The Lincoln-Zephyr is a line of luxury cars that was produced by the Lincoln division of Ford from 1936 until 1942. Bridging the gap between the Ford V8 DeLuxe and the Lincoln Model K (in both size and price), it expanded Lincoln to a second model line, competing against the Chrysler Airflow, LaSalle, and the Packard One-Twenty.
Following the discontinuation of the Model K after 1940, Lincoln shifted its production exclusively to the Lincoln-Zephyr design. After World War II, the Zephyr name was dropped.
The Zephyr had been the basis of the first Lincoln Continental, which debuted in 1940 and became Lincoln’s longest-running nameplate. The model line was powered by a V12 engine, in contrast to its competitors’ V8 and inline-8 engines.
The Lincoln-Zephyr was conceived by Edsel Ford and designed by Eugene Turenne “Bob” Gregorie. It was assembled at the Lincoln Motor Company Plant in Detroit, Michigan.
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Brand: Lincoln Model: Zephyr
Price: $8,787 Mileage: 62,409 mi.
7. **1948 Jaguar ‘Black Pearl’**Next in line to drop your jaw is the utterly unique 1948 Jaguar ‘Black Pearl,’ a car so profoundly custom, it almost transcends its origins. This isn’t just a modified Jaguar; it’s a one-off, hand-built marvel, a true coach-built hot rod conceptualized and brought to life by Rick Dore and James Hetfield himself. James recounted the intensive creative process: “We started out with a left-hand drive Jaguar and the idea was to the idea was to modify it… and modify it… and modify it some more.” This relentless pursuit of perfection resulted in a car that is, quite literally, a total original.
The design of the ‘Black Pearl’ is a masterclass in drawing inspiration from diverse automotive eras. Its sweeping teardrop profile, deeply influenced by pre-war luxury cars, seamlessly blends with elements of European pontoon fenders and a classic 1948 Jaguar grille. The original Jaguar’s body was dramatically chopped and lowered, then fitted with an AccuAir air-ride suspension. The hand-beaten panelwork, meticulously crafted from scratch by Marcel and Luc De Lay of Marcel’s Custom Metals, took two years to perfect, resulting in a car that seems to have driven straight out of a 1930s dream.
Step inside, and the luxury continues. The interior of the ‘Black Pearl’ is a bespoke sanctuary featuring a Lincoln steering wheel, exquisitely appointed cream leather upholstery, and plush Mercedes-Benz carpet underfoot. Even the gauges are a custom touch, inspired by a 1934 Plymouth, all designed to maintain an elegant, vintage aesthetic while providing modern functionality. It’s a space where every detail speaks of refined taste and unparalleled craftsmanship.
Beneath its breathtaking exterior, the ‘Black Pearl’ packs a serious punch. It’s powered by a robust 302 ci Ford V8 engine, mated to a Ford C4 automatic transmission. This ensures that it’s not just a stunning display piece, but a formidable performer on the road. The car’s undeniable allure and meticulous execution earned it the prestigious Goodguys Custom of the Year award when it was first revealed in 2014, and it later became a central, celebrated part of the “Reclaimed Rust” exhibit at the Petersen Automotive Museum in 2020. This deep PPG black showstopper truly stands alone, living up to its legendary namesake.
8. **1937 Ford Coupe ‘Crimson Ghost’**From the sleek sophistication of the ‘Black Pearl,’ we now shift gears to something with a slightly more menacing, yet utterly captivating, presence: the 1937 Ford Coupe, affectionately named ‘Crimson Ghost.’ James Hetfield once referred to the original 1937 Ford Coupe as an “ugly duckling,” but his deep affection for its potential led him to Rick Dore Kustoms once again. Together, they embarked on a journey to transform it, preserving its fundamental design while masterfully smoothing out its rough edges with subtle, yet impactful, tweaks.
The transformation is truly striking. The hardtop roof has been expertly chopped, giving it a lower, more aggressive profile, while the fenders and running boards were artfully reshaped. It features a signature Hetfield-modified grille that commands attention, making it instantly recognizable as one of his bespoke creations. But what truly sets it apart is its namesake: the entire car has been coated in a vibrant, deep crimson-blood-red color, lending it a dramatic and unforgettable aura. This is where the ‘Crimson Ghost’ truly earns its moniker.
The low stance of the ‘Crimson Ghost’ suggests it rides on an air suspension system, allowing it to hug the ground with an intimidating presence, though this hasn’t been officially confirmed. Under the hood, this classic is fitted with a 3.6-liter V8 engine, delivering 85 horsepower and 153 lb-ft of torque, providing a nod to its original capabilities while basking in its new custom glory. It’s a testament to the fact that power doesn’t always have to be outlandish to be effective in a custom build.
This custom Ford Coupe embodies a perfect fusion of eras. It effortlessly projects an “old-school gangster look” but with a distinct modern polish. The smooth curves are punctuated by sharp details, creating a dynamic visual experience. The carefully chosen color, the aggressive stance, and the flawless craftsmanship all converge to create a truly iconic vehicle, solidifying its place as one of the coolest rides in James Hetfield’s extraordinary garage.
Car Model Information: 2025 Ford Mustang GT Premium
Caption: 1932 Ford Model B Standard Tudor 2-door sedan
Name: 1932 Ford Model B
Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Production: 1932–1934
Predecessor: Ford Model A (1927–1931)
Successor: Ford Model 48
Class: Full-size Ford
BodyStyle: phaeton body,Pickup truck
Engine: 201 cuin
Abbr: on
Transmission: Non-synchronous transmission,Manual transmission
Wheelbase: 2692 mm
Disp: flip
Layout: FR layout
Assembly: see list below
Related: Ford Model Y,Ford Köln,Ford Rheinland,GAZ-M1
Designer: Edsel Ford
Categories: 1930s cars, All articles needing additional references, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles needing additional references from January 2021, Articles with short description
Summary: The term 1932 Ford may refer to three models of automobile produced by Ford Motors between 1932 and 1934: the Model B, the Model 18, and the Model 40. These succeeded the Model A. The Model B had an updated four-cylinder engine and was available from 1932 to 1934. The Model 18 was the first Ford fitted with the flathead V-8, and it was available in the Model 40 too in 1933 and 1934. The company also replaced the Model AA truck with the Model BB, available with either the four- or eight-cylinder engine.
The three car models were replaced by the streamlined Model 48 in 1935.
Get more information about: 1932 Ford
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Brand: Ford Model: Coupe
Price: $43,944 Mileage: 7,784 mi.
9. **1961 Lincoln Continental ‘Dead Kennedy’**Prepare for a car that provokes thought as much as it turns heads: the 1961 Lincoln Continental, famously dubbed ‘Dead Kennedy’ by James Hetfield. This resto-mod is built upon the venerable 4th generation Continental, a model forever etched in history as the same car in which JFK was driven during his assassination. This controversial name, alongside its dramatically lowered and modded aesthetic, ensures this Lincoln makes an indelible impression. Once again, Hetfield entrusted this significant project to the skilled hands at Blue Collar Customs, known for their meticulous attention to detail.
Following its restoration, the car received a significant lowering treatment, giving it an intensely subdued and somber stance. The suicide doors, a hallmark of this generation of Continental, only amplify its unique and powerful ambiance. Every older component has been painstakingly swapped out for new materials, all meticulously designed in the original style to preserve its iconic retro look. It’s finished in a sleek, hardtop black, a stark departure from its original “seaweed green with flames,” a choice Hetfield clearly felt was a better fit for this darkest of custom cars.
Interestingly, Petersen Museum reports that this was the first car Hetfield “extensively modified by himself,” taking a personal hand in its full repaint, the addition of new wheels and tires, and even altering the grille to sit artfully in front of the headlights. This hands-on approach truly makes the ‘Dead Kennedy’ a deeply personal reflection of his artistic vision, blending a piece of automotive history with his unique brand of rock ‘n’ roll sensibility.
Powering this imposing machine is a robust 7.0-liter V8 engine, generating a substantial 300 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque, all channeled through a 3-speed automatic transmission. This allows the ‘Dead Kennedy’ to reach a top speed of 120 MPH, proving it has the muscle to back up its powerful presence. It accelerates from 0 to 60 MPH in a respectable 10.5 seconds, offering a blend of classic aesthetics with formidable, road-ready performance. It’s a car that carries a heavy name with an equally weighty presence on the asphalt.
Car Model Information: 2018 Lincoln Continental Black Label
Name: Lincoln Continental
Caption: 2019 Lincoln Continental
Manufacturer: Lincoln Motor Company
Production: 1939–1942,1946–1948,1956–2002,2016–2020
ModelYears: 1940–1942,1946–1948,1958–1980,1982–2002,2017–2020
Class: Full-size car,luxury car
Layout: Longitudinal engine,Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
Categories: 1930s cars, 1940s cars, 1950s cars, 1960s cars, 1970s cars
Summary: The Lincoln Continental is a series of mid-sized and full-sized luxury cars produced between 1939 and 2020 by Lincoln, a division of the American automaker Ford. The model line was introduced following the construction of a personal vehicle for Edsel Ford, who commissioned a coachbuilt 1939 Lincoln-Zephyr convertible, developed as a vacation vehicle to attract potential Lincoln buyers. In what would give the model line its name, the exterior was designed with European “continental” styling elements, including a rear-mounted spare tire.
In production for over 55 years across nine different decades, Lincoln has produced ten generations of the Continental. Within the Lincoln model line, the Continental has served several roles ranging from its flagship to its base-trim sedan. From 1961 to 1976, Lincoln sold the Continental as its exclusive model line. The model line has also gone on hiatus three times. From 1949 to 1955, the nameplate was briefly retired. In 1981, the Continental was renamed the Lincoln Town Car to accommodate the 1982 seventh-generation Continental. After 2002, the Continental was retired, largely replaced by the Lincoln MKS in 2009; in 2017, the tenth-generation Continental replaced the MKS.
As part of its entry into full-scale production, the first-generation Continental was the progenitor of an entirely new automotive segment, the personal luxury car. Following World War II, the segment evolved into coupes and convertibles larger than sports cars and grand touring cars with an emphasis on features, styling, and comfort over performance and handling. From 1956 to 1957, the Continental nameplate was the namesake of the short-lived Continental Division, marketing the 1956–1957 Continental Mark II as the worldwide flagship of Ford Motor Company; as a second successor, Ford introduced the Continental Mark series in 1969, produced over six generations to 1998.
Along with the creation of the personal luxury car segment, the Lincoln Continental marked the zenith of several designs in American automotive history. The Continental is the final American vehicle line with a factory-produced V12 engine (1948), the final four-door convertible (1967), and the final model line to undergo downsizing (for the 1980 model year).
American production of the Continental and MKZ, its only two sedans, ended in 2020 thereby making Lincoln a crossover/SUV-only brand in the US.
Get more information about: Lincoln Continental
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Brand: Lincoln Model: Continental
Price: $33,888 Mileage: 45,001 mi.
10. **1936 Ford ‘Iron Fist’**Completing our thrilling tour of James Hetfield’s “Reclaimed Rust” collection, we arrive at the formidable 1936 Ford, powerfully named ‘Iron Fist.’ This remarkable vehicle began its life as a five-window beater car, which James acquired and subsequently entrusted to Blue Collar Customs. What started as a “home-brew project” displayed at local car shows, quickly evolved into a full custom shop endeavor when Hetfield decided the car needed a serious freshen-up, much like his Ford F100 ‘Str8 Edge’.
The transformation undertaken by Blue Collar Customs was comprehensive and masterful. The ‘36 Ford was equipped with an advanced air suspension system, complemented by custom exhaust routing and careful modifications to the airbag system. These engineering feats were specifically designed to achieve an incredibly low stance without compromising on comfort or ride handling, ensuring that its aggressive look didn’t come at the expense of driveability. The entire bodywork was meticulously hand-fabricated, and after considering a black finish, Hetfield opted for a unique silver, a bare-metal look under a clear coat, which proudly showcases every weld and curve.
Step inside, and you’ll find an interior that’s a perfect blend of vintage charm and modern amenity. It features a 1950s Chevy steering column, offset by gleaming nickel-plated accents, and luxurious oxblood leather upholstery. The remaining panels are finished in a sleek gloss black, creating a refined yet tough aesthetic. For those longer journeys, James thoughtfully had an AC and audio system installed, both cleverly and discreetly concealed to preserve the interior’s original, period-correct look. The shop even managed to carefully fit an all-electric AC system between the seats and the trunk, with air blown into the cabin through vents sourced from an old boat – a truly ingenious touch.
The ‘Iron Fist’ has not only captivated Hetfield but also garnered widespread acclaim in the automotive world. It was proudly showcased at prestigious events like the 2012 SEMA and West Coast Customs Cruisin’ Nationals, earning praise for its innovative design and execution. This car holds a special place in Hetfield’s heart, as it’s a “true labor of love” where he personally worked on the welds, deeply embedding his craftsmanship into its very structure.
This ’36 Ford is a true embodiment of raw metal and muscle, with its chopped top, reshaped trunk, and the unapologetic bare-metal body. Inspired by Hetfield’s custom “Invisible Kid” guitars, the ‘Iron Fist’ is stripped-down, tough, and undeniably loud—just like his iconic music. It’s a full-force throwback to traditional hot rodding, a dynamic sculpture that stands as a powerful testament to Hetfield’s dedication to automotive art.
**The Enduring Roar of Reclaimed Rust**
And there you have it – a whirlwind tour through ten of the most astounding automotive creations from James Hetfield’s “Reclaimed Rust” collection. From the elegant ‘Slow Burn’ to the raw power of ‘Iron Fist,’ each vehicle is a profound statement, a meticulously crafted extension of Hetfield’s creative genius. Unlike mere acquisitions, these rolling sculptures represent a deeply personal journey, where vision meets metal, and artistry is forged with a passion as intense as his legendary guitar riffs.
Hettfield’s profound decision to donate his entire collection to the esteemed Petersen Automotive Museum ensures that these masterpieces aren’t just admired by a select few, but shared with the world. As he eloquently puts it, these cars, much like his music, are “forms of freedom and expression that convey the passions of their creator.” They are a testament to the enduring craft of custom car building and the boundless imagination of a true icon.
So, whether you’re a devoted gearhead, a Metallica loyalist, or simply an admirer of unparalleled craftsmanship, James Hetfield’s “Reclaimed Rust” collection offers an extraordinary spectacle. It’s a world where classic metal takes on a new form, where every curve tells a story, and where the spirit of rock ‘n’ roll lives on, not just in sound, but in chrome, steel, and horsepower. These aren’t just cars; they are legacies, meticulously pieced together, cherished, and now, finally, shared for all to witness and appreciate.
