1951 Chevy Fleetline
Custom-built “Kustoms of America” George Barris Show Car

A gorgeous, custom Kemp-style chopped lead sled show car! This is a true American showpiece built by the most iconic custom car company in history — a rolling symbol of custom culture excellence.

This outstanding build spent nearly its entire life as a museum showpiece. It’s powered by a rebuilt 1989 350ci Chevy small block, paired with a TH350 automatic transmission.

If you're looking to be the center of attention at every show, look no further. This car will turn heads and draw crowds wherever it goes!

Completed in 1995 by Kustoms of America, this one-of-a-kind build spared no expense. A bit of history: Kustoms of America was founded in the 1940s by legendary customizer George Barris, known for building iconic vehicles like KITT from Knight Rider, the Batmobile, the Munster Koach, the Beverly Hillbillies truck, the Monkeemobile, and more.

George Barris handed over Kustoms of America to Jim Phibbs in February 1994. Under George’s oversight, Jim was commissioned to build this car for a charity raffle. Upon completion, George Barris personally signed the back deck lid as a mark of authenticity and approval. Photos documenting the build process, including Jim chopping the top and modifying the body, are included.

The car was initially won by a woman from California, then sold to collector Jim Bayus of Canfield, Ohio, who stored it in his climate-controlled museum for nearly 25 years. Sparingly driven and meticulously maintained, the car recently underwent a full service and road test. It runs flawlessly and is ready for a new owner to enjoy.

Highlights:

• Beautiful chop with louvered hood
• Frenched headlights, dual frenched antennas
• Molded front end with custom Desoto grille and valance
• Custom burgundy paint with a deep luster; minimal blemishes (notably, a small one above the rear passenger tire)
• Stunning custom vinyl interior with embroidered Kustoms of America logos
• Electric door and trunk poppers
• Power rack and pinion steering
• Power brakes and windows
• Tilt steering column
• Fully upholstered and carpeted trunk with spare
• Rear air shocks with in-car controls and trunk-mounted compressor
• Rebuilt small block Chevy 350ci engine, dressed with tasteful chrome and custom touches
• TH350 automatic transmission
• Dual exhaust with Flowmaster mufflers and megaphone tips
• Dummy non-functional lake pipes
• Chrome bumpers and brightwork in excellent condition
• Rock-solid body, floors, and trunk — all gaps and seals are tight
• Complete build log with photos included

This is a rare opportunity to own a custom show car with provenance, pedigree, and a deep connection to the history of American custom car culture. Finished, turn-key, and ready to enjoy or show — this one truly stands out.