This 1968 Toyota Corona is a custom one-off hot rod conceived and created by Mitch Allread in Southern California. This eye-catching build is powered by a 4.0-liter DOHC 32-valve Lexus V-8 engine and is distinguished by a modified 1968 Corona two-door hardtop body that has been chopped and reworked over a tubular steel space frame with a 106-inch wheelbase. The car reflects a variety of automotive influences, drawing from hot rods, sports cars and even dirt track super-modifieds. In a hat-tip towards one sports car influence, the Corona is finished in Gulf Racing Blue, reminiscent of the Porsche 917Ks. The overall look of the car is like nothing else on the road successfully combining both vintage and modern elements.

Custom craftsmanship is evident throughout the vehicle. The front-end has been modified with a unique front grille which is set forward of the front wheels, highlighting the exposed engine. Even with the design changes the original contours of the Toyota Corona's front fender lines are still evident. The vehicles original glass has been replaced by Lexan throughout the vehicle. Unique rear exterior features include replica 1959 Cadillac taillights and a Lexan spoiler.

The interior is fully customized featuring two Jaz racing seats, full racing harnesses, window nets and a headliner upholstered in stylized orange silicone by Michael Maestas. Additional interior features include an array of gauges monitoring vitals and a full rollcage which further enhances chassis rigidity.

This vehicle was built as a racecar, with the intention of competing in the Silver State Challenge in Nevada. It is reported that fewer than 8,000 miles have been added since the build was completed in 2004 and the car has yet to participate in competition. The vehicle works well and has been driven on at least one Los Angeles to San Francisco road trip.

Push the starter button and the 4.0-liter V-8 engine roars to life. The engine is unmodified and was rated around 250-hp when new. Allread built the entire exhaust system, channeling an X-pipe to two mufflers and outside pipes. The sounds emitted from the exhaust have been described as “addicting.” The V-8 engine is mated to a Lexus SC400 four-speed automatic transmission.

The front suspension consists of upper and lower unequal length A-arms fabricated by Allread, in connection with Carrera shocks and AFCO springs. It’s an engaging driving experience behind the wheel with RGP manual rack-and-pinion steering and Wilwood brakes all around. The rear wheels are driven by a Speedway Engineering quick-change solid axle, a nod to circle track racers of yesteryear. The car rides on staggered tires with P255/50ZR17 Nitto mounted on the rear and P215/45ZR17s mounted up front.

Overall, this is a unique Southern California hot rod successfully blends American and Japanese elements with an infusion of unique Southern California style. With such a unique car, it comes as no surprised that Hot Rod magazine chose to feature the car when it was built. A true one-off bespoke vehicle, the Mitch Allread Corona is guaranteed to attract more attention than just about anything else on the road.