Creager Hybrid: 95-Year-Old Builder's Custom Red Cadillac Convertible

⚠️Grandpa Masterpiece💣 - Creativity in the automotive world knows no age limits. Even an elderly grandfather can succeed in making his dream car. Kristi D. Johnson's grandpa, Wes, went viral on TikTok with his inspiring journey. He didn't attend college until his 30s, graduating from medical school at 41. Despite the challenges, in his retirement, he built the Creager Hybrid—a crowning achievement of ingenuity, passion, and determination.

A unique red Cadillac Eldorado convertible custom, known as the Creager Hybrid, was showcased at the Nashville Good Guys 2012. (Picture from: LegendaryCollectorCars)

Wes proudly introduced the Creager Hybrid, a custom-built red Cadillac Eldorado made from at least ten different cars, all sourced from junkyards. The idea for this unique creation began 30 years ago when a race car driver friend offered him a Cadillac Eldorado with the biggest engine Cadillac made. Although it was front-wheel drive, Wes envisioned a rear-driven sports car, so he started planning his build, storing the car at an airport. Starting the build in 1996 and finishing around 2000, the Creager Hybrid highlights Wes Johnson's dedication and skill. 

He found a frame in a junkyard that matched the Cadillac's width, welded it together, and slowly pieced together his masterpiece. The Creager Hybrid truly lives up to its name. The grill is from a modified GMC pickup, the front suspension from a Mustang, and the headlights from a Mazda. The front features an old Cadillac hood with custom-shaped fenders. The windshield is from a Ford pickup, and the doors are from a Chevy Camaro. The hubcaps come from a Lincoln Continental, and the rear is a modified Cadillac with shortened fenders and a custom trunk lid.

A unique red Cadillac Eldorado convertible custom, known as the Creager Hybrid, was showcased at the Nashville Good Guys 2012. (Picture from: Kristi D. Johnson's Pages in TikTok )

Inside the Creager Hybrid, Wes’s craftsmanship shines. He meticulously shaped and laminated wood for the interior, covered with vinyl for a polished look. The original Cadillac hood mechanism was preserved for functionality, and the metal fenders were skillfully welded to create perfect curves.

The front end of the Creager Hybrid, the only part not made of metal, is entirely fiberglass. Wes constructed forms from wood, covered them with styrofoam, and shaped them to fit, adding a heavy rope for extra strength. The headlights, which lift with a spring-loaded window raiser from a Ford, automatically turn on when raised.

Wes designed the gas tank to serve a dual purpose: holding gas and channeling air to the rear engine for cooling. Furthermore, he customized each part of the Creager Hybrid, meticulously cutting, bending, and welding the fenders to achieve the perfect shape. He then encountered another challenge when the carburetor protruded through the trunk lid. To address this, he created a wooden mold, covered it with fiberglass, and fashioned a Continental kit to conceal it.  

A unique red Cadillac Eldorado convertible custom, known as the Creager Hybrid. (Picture from: Kristi D. Johnson's Pages in TikTok )

To address engine cooling challenges, Wes installed three radiators—one in the front, one for the hydraulic fluid, and the original radiator near the engine. With its 8.2-liter engine, racing cam, high-performance carburetor, and competition torque converter, the Creager Hybrid is a powerful machine. Despite its impressive capabilities, Wes drives it with great care.

Uniquely, the car is insured and registered as a 1970 Cadillac Eldorado, ensuring it’s road-legal. The Creager Hybrid is more than just a custom car—it’s a story of resilience, creativity, and passion. Wes Johnson’s meticulous craftsmanship and innovative problem-solving have resulted in a unique masterpiece. |

As a final note, while this article aims to capture the essence of the Creager Hybrid, it may contain imperfections or inaccuracies. We welcome any suggestions for improvement in the comments below. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | KRISTI D. JOHNSON'S PAGES IN TIKTOK | LEGENDARYCOLLECTORCARS | SCOOPWHOOP | STACEYDAVID'S PAGES IN INSTAGRAM ]

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Ferrari Set to Launch LaFerrari Successor

New Prancing Horse - The world of supercars is buzzing once again, with top automotive brands preparing to release their latest innovations. McLaren recently grabbed attention with the launch of its McLaren W1, hailed as a "Real Speed Marvel," continuing the legacy of its iconic hypercars. However, while McLaren's reveal has sparked excitement, all eyes are now on Ferrari, as the legendary automaker prepares to unveil its next hypercar, rumored to be named the Ferrari F250. This upcoming model has generated considerable anticipation, promising to carry forward Ferrari's tradition of excellence in speed, design, and engineering.

As the whispers grow louder, Ferrari’s latest hyper car project is shaping up to be one of the most eagerly anticipated launches in recent history. (Picture from: Ferrari)

While the name Ferrari F250 has not been officially confirmed, speculation continues to grow. Regardless of its final label, Ferrari's new hypercar is expected to break the 1,000 Imperial horsepower barrier, a feat that places it among the most powerful vehicles ever produced. Ferrari has already teased this upcoming model to its wealthy clientele, offering them an exclusive sneak peek at a sketch reminiscent of the Vision GT concept from 2022. This limited preview has only added to the growing excitement surrounding the hypercar.

Rendering of what might be the LaFerrari successor, called the Ferrari F250, created by Josh Bymes. (Picture from: Carscoops)

At the heart of the F250 is an advanced powertrain that reflects Ferrari’s pursuit of innovation and performance. According to reports, the hypercar will feature a modified version of the hybrid twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 engine currently used in the Ferrari 296 GTB. In the 296 GTB, this engine generates an impressive 819 horsepower, with 654 horsepower coming from the internal combustion engine alone. However, for the F250, Ferrari is expected to push these numbers even higher, likely exceeding the performance of its SF90, which delivers a jaw-dropping 986 horsepower. The F250 is poised to take Ferrari’s already formidable hybrid technology to new heights, offering unparalleled acceleration and top speed.

Ferrari outs new hypercar sketch to wealthy clients as F250 hits the road with less camo. (Picture from: Carscoops)

Beyond raw power, Ferrari is renowned for its meticulous attention to aerodynamics, and the F250 is no exception. Spy photos of the prototype have revealed a sleek, low-profile design that incorporates multiple aerodynamic enhancements. Air passages and flics are seamlessly integrated into the bodywork, contributing to the hypercar’s superior handling and performance at high speeds. Additionally, the F250 is expected to feature active aerodynamic elements, such as a rear wing that can adjust its angle to improve stability and downforce, giving drivers greater control in dynamic driving conditions. These innovations reflect Ferrari’s dedication to creating a vehicle that is not only fast but also finely tuned for precision on the road or track.

The hypercar figure which said was the successor to the LaFerrari caught on camera while on test. (Picture from: Autoblog)

Performance figures for the F250 are already sparking excitement among supercar enthusiasts. The hypercar is rumored to accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in less than two seconds, a blistering pace that puts it in league with the fastest production cars on the planet. Moreover, the F250 is expected to achieve a top speed exceeding 217 miles per hour, further solidifying its status as a top contender in the world of hypercars. These numbers align with Ferrari’s reputation for creating vehicles that push the limits of what is technically and mechanically possible, promising a thrilling driving experience for those lucky enough to get behind the wheel.

The hypercar figure which said was the successor to the LaFerrari has a low-to-ground bodywork with a yellow base electric warning sticker indicating the presence of a hybrid powertrain. (Picture from: Autoblog)

In terms of design, the F250 is set to blend Ferrari’s classic aesthetic with cutting-edge innovations. Spy shots suggest that the hypercar will feature distinctive design elements, such as a door mechanism similar to that of the LaFerrari and Enzo models, with doors that cut into the roof. This unique feature adds to the car’s dramatic appearance, while also enhancing its aerodynamic efficiency. Ferrari’s designers have paid close attention to every detail, ensuring that the F250 not only looks stunning but also delivers peak performance through its lightweight construction and aerodynamic focus.

The hypercar figure which said was the successor to the LaFerrari featured with a large wing that appear above the tail. (Picture from: Autoblog)

One of the key aspects of the F250’s launch is its exclusivity. Ferrari has announced that production will be extremely limited, with less than 5% of the brand’s total annual volume being dedicated to this hypercar. Based on Ferrari's global sales in 2023, this suggests that fewer than 683 units will be produced. Industry estimates predict that Ferrari will manufacture around Ferrari 599 Berlinettas, 200 Aperta variants, and possibly 30 track-focused specials. This level of exclusivity has only heightened the car’s desirability, as collectors and enthusiasts vie for the chance to own one of these limited-edition masterpieces.

Ferrari outs new hypercar sketch to wealthy clients as F250 hits the road with less camo. (Picture from: Carscoops)

Despite the projected price tag of over $2 million, the F250 has already attracted significant interest from potential buyers. Ferrari has invited select clients to private previews of the car, and it is widely believed that all available units already have buyers lined up, with several alternates waiting in the wings. This demand reflects the high esteem in which Ferrari is held by its loyal customer base. Owning a Ferrari hypercar is more than just owning a vehicle—it is about becoming part of an elite community that values performance, innovation, and exclusivity.

Ferrari outs new hypercar sketch to wealthy clients as F250 hits the road with less camo. (Picture from: Carscoops)

As Ferrari prepares for the official debut of its newest hypercar, expected either later this year or in early 2024, the automotive world is eagerly awaiting what promises to be another game-changer. Whether it ends up being called the F250 or not, this hypercar will undoubtedly raise the bar for performance and design, continuing Ferrari’s tradition of excellence. For car enthusiasts, the unveiling of this new model represents the next chapter in Ferrari’s long history of producing some of the world’s most iconic and exhilarating vehicles. We apologize, the video below does not feature the specific supercar in discussion. Instead, it is provided as an illustration to showcase the excellence of Ferrari supercars.

Ultimately, whether Ferrari’s newest hypercar is labeled as the F250 or takes on another name, it is destined to become a symbol of the brand’s relentless pursuit of perfection. Combining advanced hybrid technology with Ferrari’s signature design language and unparalleled performance, this hypercar is sure to leave a lasting impact on the automotive world. As Ferrari continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible, the future of hypercars looks more thrilling than ever. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | FERRARI | MSN | AUTOBLOG | CARSCOOPS | THESUPERCARBLOG | DISENOART ]

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Tesla Leads the Way in Autonomous Ride-Hailing with Robotaxi and Robovan

The Future Should Be Look Like The Future - The rise of autonomous vehicles has been a key topic of discussion in recent years, with advancements in artificial intelligence and self-driving technology sparking the imaginations of engineers, entrepreneurs, and consumers alike. As the world moves toward a future where cars may no longer require human intervention, Tesla finds itself at the forefront of this movement. 

Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla, unveiled the Cybercab prototype robotaxi at Tesla’s "We, Robot" event, held at the Warner Bros. studio lot in Burbank, California, where several private roads were used for the demonstration. (Picture from: TheVerge)

Genki 7: RE Amemiya’s Extreme Mazda RX-7 Build

Rotary BEAST - The Mazda RX-7 FD3S, a renowned sports car, was initially launched with a sleek aerodynamic design and a 2-door coupe body style. This vehicle quickly became a canvas for rotary engine tuning specialists, particularly RE Amemiya. The RX-7 served as the foundation for countless modifications and innovations, showcasing the endless creativity of this legendary tuning company. Over the years, RE Amemiya has participated in numerous modification contests and racing events, always pushing the boundaries of what the RX-7 could become.

The Genki 7 was one of the most notable RE Amemiya's car creations that made its debut at the 2009 Tokyo Auto Salon. (Picture from: RE Amemiya)

Oilstainlab HF-11: A Hypercar Built for True Enthusiasts

Crazy Concept - The desire to create something truly extraordinary often stems from unconventional thinking. In the world of high-performance cars, innovation is driven by ideas that might seem wild or impossible to the average person. But for those with a passion for pushing the boundaries of engineering and design, these "crazy" concepts can lead to remarkable creations. Such is the case with the Bridan brothers, Nikita and Iliya, who have taken a bold step in the world of hypercars with their company, Oilstainlab.

The Oilstainlab HF-11 will be a lightweight, high-horsepower, manual-transmission sports car with a classic racer design. . (Picture from: CarAndDriver)

The story of Nikita and Iliya Bridan, twin brothers from Canada, is a testament to how creativity and ambition can merge into a dream project. Both brothers have impressive backgrounds in the automotive industry, having worked with renowned companies like Acura, Cadillac, Genesis, Honda, and Toyota. They’ve built a solid reputation as designers with a flair for innovation, which laid the foundation for their next big venture. In 2019, they made a decisive move and launched Oilstainlab, with the ambitious goal of creating supercars that stand out in a market saturated with competitors claiming to be disruptors.

Although the automaker love the idea of an aluminum-bodied car, the Oilstainlab HF-11 will have a carbon tub and composite bodywork. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)

Oilstainlab made waves with their first model, the Half-11, which was showcased at Goodwood Festival of Speed 2024. The car’s design drew attention due to its unique aesthetic, described as a fusion of a classic Can-Am race car and a childhood fantasy. This caught the eyes of many, sparking inquiries from potential buyers. Encouraged by this response, the Bridan brothers decided to take things to the next level by developing a production car—the Oilstainlab HF-11.

Oilstainlab's first model, the Half-11, showcased at the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed, captivated attention with its unique design, blending a classic Can-Am race car with elements of a childhood fantasy. (Picture from: CarPorn)

The HF-11 represents the brothers' leap into the world of production hypercars, although calling it a "production car" in the traditional sense is a stretch. Their vision is centered on crafting something rare and exclusive, with only 25 units planned for production. This car isn’t just about performance; it’s about creating an unforgettable experience for its owners. At a hefty price of $2,350,000, the HF-11 is tailored for those who seek something beyond the typical hypercar offerings. And for those interested only in the internal combustion version, there’s an opportunity to save $500,000.

Planned as a very limited edition, only 25 Oilstainlab HF-11 cars will be built. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)

At the core of the HF-11 is its innovative powertrain setup, offering both an internal combustion engine and an electric motor, catering to enthusiasts of both worlds. The 4.5-liter flat-six engine, capable of 650 horsepower and revving up to 12,000 rpm, is paired with a manual transmission for those who crave the traditional driving experience. 

The first running Oilstainlab HF-11 prototype is set to debut in the spring of 2025. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)

But for those leaning towards the future, the HF-11 also comes with an 850-horsepower electric motor and battery pack, which can rev to 13,000 rpm. What makes this even more extraordinary is the fact that the powertrains are interchangeable, allowing the driver to switch between the two setups depending on their mood or driving preference. This is more than just a powertrain swap; it’s an entire subframe swap, inspired by Audi’s rear subframe swaps at Le Mans in 2000. 

In addition to luxury and comfort, the Oilstainlab HF-11 cabin offers superior visibility and easier ingress and egress compared to its competitors. (Picture from: Oilstainlab)

The HF-11’s design is as bold as its mechanical setup. With a carbon-fiber tub built by the same factory responsible for the Ford GT and body panels made of lightweight composite materials, the car is expected to weigh around 2,000 pounds. Nikita Bridan dreams of a handmade aluminum body, although he admits the practicality of finding someone to craft 25 sets might be a challenge. The HF-11 is designed to be striking, with a front end reminiscent of a smoothed-down Porsche 911 and a rear that evokes the aggressive stance of a Jaguar F-Type.

Good news for tall collectors: The Oilstainlab HF-11 was designed to fit drivers up to 6'3" with a helmet. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)

While the HF-11’s design and powertrain are groundbreaking, the brothers’ approach to customer involvement is just as unconventional. Instead of simply selling cars, Oilstainlab invites a select group of customers—dubbed "Maniacs"—to participate in the development process. These individuals, many of whom already own competitive hypercars, will have a hand in fine-tuning the final product. Nikita and Iliya are looking to create not just a car, but a community of like-minded enthusiasts who share their passion for pushing automotive boundaries.

The designers say the Oilstainlab HF-11 is meant to be an engaging car to drive, not just a high-tech or quick one. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)

Despite the audacious nature of the HF-11, the Bridan brothers maintain that their goal is not to become a large-scale manufacturer. They are not interested in competing with the major players in the hypercar market. Instead, their focus is on preserving a specific driving experience—one that is lightweight, engaging, and increasingly rare in a world where regulations and restrictions dominate the automotive landscape. Their mission is simple: to create the cars that no one else is making, for the enthusiasts who crave something different.

An ambitious goal of the HF-11 is to offer a swappable rear subframe with both ICE and EV powerplants. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)

As the HF-11 moves closer to its projected prototype release in 2025, the automotive world watches with anticipation. The Bridan brothers are proving that there’s still room for wild ideas and bold innovations in a market that often plays it safe. Their commitment to blending the best of both worlds—traditional internal combustion and cutting-edge electric propulsion—offers a glimpse into the future of hypercars, where versatility and performance coexist in harmony.

In the end, Oilstainlab’s HF-11 is more than just a car; it’s a statement. A statement that innovation thrives where creativity meets passion, and that even in a world dominated by regulations and mainstream designs, there’s still space for the dreamers and the maniacs who dare to build something truly unique. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | OILSTAINLAB | TOPGEAR | CARANDDRIVER | CARSCOOPS | GOODWOOD | CARPORN ]

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Schuppan 962CR: Racing Heritage on the Road

Unique ONES - In the realm of automotive achievements, exceptional accomplishments often receive a unique form of recognition. This is especially true in the world of motorsports, where the triumphs of racers and their machines are immortalized through special editions. One such instance is the Schuppan 962CR, one of six cars born out of a remarkable victory and a passion for excellence.

One of the coolest 1990s supercars you probably never heard about, the 962CR was a street-legal version of the Porsche 962 Le Mans Group C prototype. (Picture from: KatanaLtd)

Australian racing legend Vern Schuppan, in tribute to his monumental win at the 1983 24 Hours of Le Mans, embarked on an ambitious project to create a street-legal version of the iconic Porsche 962 racer. This endeavor resulted in the creation of the Schuppan 962CR, a car that not only paid homage to his success but also stood as a testament to innovation and craftsmanship in the automotive industry.

The Schuppan 962CR was crafted to pay homage to Vern Schuppan's monumental win at the 24 Hours of Le Mans behind the wheel of a Porsche 956 and its successor 962. (Picture from: Autoevolution)

Vern Schuppan’s journey to create the 962CR was fueled by his desire to commemorate his 1983 Le Mans victory, where he piloted a Porsche 956 to triumph. The Porsche 956, and its successor, the 962, became legendary in the world of endurance racing, dominating the tracks and securing over 130 victories.

One of the coolest 1990s supercars you probably never heard about, the 962CR was a street-legal version of the Porsche 962 Le Mans Group C prototype. (Picture from: StuttCars)

These cars were revered for their engineering brilliance and competitive prowess, making them the perfect blueprint for Schuppan’s ambitious project. With backing from Japanese investors, Schuppan set out to transform the race-bred 962 into a machine that could be driven on public roads, while retaining the spirit and performance of its racing counterpart.

One of the coolest 1990s supercars you probably never heard about, the 962CR was a street-legal version of the Porsche 962 Le Mans Group C prototype. (Picture from: Autoevolution)

The Schuppan 962CR was produced between 1992 and 1994, during which time Schuppan collaborated closely with Porsche to bring his vision to life. The car was built around a carbon fiber monocoque chassis, a cutting-edge design at the time. Reynard Motorsport, a prominent name in motorsport engineering, was tasked with constructing the carbon monocoques, while Schuppan himself oversaw the bodywork.

One of the coolest 1990s supercars you probably never heard about, the 962CR was a street-legal version of the Porsche 962 Le Mans Group C prototype. (Picture from: BingoWorldSports)

The design of the 962CR borrowed heavily from the original 962 race car, ensuring that the lineage of this iconic machine was preserved in every detail. Schuppan’s meticulous approach to the project was evident in every aspect of the car’s construction, from the lightweight chassis to the powerful engine that lay at its heart.

One of the coolest 1990s supercars you probably never heard about, the 962CR was a street-legal version of the Porsche 962 Le Mans Group C prototype. (Picture from: Autoevolution)

The engine that powered the 962CR was a water-cooled, 3.3-liter Type-935 Flat-6, equipped with twin KKK turbochargers. This engine, capable of producing 600 horsepower, was the only Porsche-sourced component in the car. It was a slightly modified version of the engine used in the 962C that competed in the North American IMSA GT Championship.

One of the coolest 1990s supercars you probably never heard about, the 962CR was a street-legal version of the Porsche 962 Le Mans Group C prototype. (Picture from: Autoevolution)

The power from this engine was transmitted to the rear wheels via a five-speed manual transmission, allowing the car to achieve a top speed of 230 mph and accelerate from 0 to 60 mph  in just 3.5 seconds. The use of titanium fasteners throughout the car further highlighted the attention to detail and commitment to performance that defined the 962CR.

One of the coolest 1990s supercars you probably never heard about, the 962CR was a street-legal version of the Porsche 962 Le Mans Group C prototype. (Picture from: Autoevolution)

The construction of the 962CR was a complex and costly endeavor. Schuppan initially planned to build 25 units, with the cars being assembled by Modena Cars in High Wycombe, England. However, due to financial difficulties, only six cars were ultimately produced. Each car was built to comply with either Japanese or German safety regulations, ensuring that they could be legally driven on the roads in those countries. Despite the challenges faced during production, the Schuppan 962CR was a marvel of engineering, combining the raw power and performance of a race car with the sophistication required for a road-legal vehicle.

One of the coolest 1990s supercars you probably never heard about, the 962CR was a street-legal version of the Porsche 962 Le Mans Group C prototype. (Picture from: Autoevolution)

The price of the 962CR reflected its exclusivity and the level of craftsmanship involved in its creation. Originally priced at ¥195 million, equivalent to around $1.5 million USD in 1994, the car was one of the most expensive vehicles ever produced at the time. Unfortunately, the high cost of production and financial setbacks led to the downfall of Schuppan’s company.

One of the coolest 1990s supercars you probably never heard about, the 962CR was a street-legal version of the Porsche 962 Le Mans Group C prototype. (Picture from: Autoevolution)

After shipping two cars to Japan, payment issues forced Schuppan to declare bankruptcy, marking the end of the 962CR’s production run. Despite this, the car has become a prized possession among collectors, with its value only increasing over the years. Today, the Schuppan 962CR is considered a rare and highly sought-after collector’s item, with prices starting at $1.9 million USD.

The legacy of the Schuppan 962CR is one of passion, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence. Although only six cars were built, and four remain today due to one being destroyed in a fire, the 962CR stands as a symbol of what can be achieved when a racing legend channels his experience and knowledge into creating something truly extraordinary.

One of the coolest 1990s supercars you probably never heard about, the 962CR was a street-legal version of the Porsche 962 Le Mans Group C prototype. (Picture from: Autoevolution)

Vern Schuppan’s vision to create a street-legal version of the Porsche 962 not only honored his own achievements on the track but also left a lasting impact on the world of high-performance sports cars. The 962CR remains a testament to the ingenuity and determination of those who dare to dream big, and its place in automotive history is forever secured.

The story of the Schuppan 962CR is a powerful reminder that even in the face of adversity, greatness can be achieved. The car serves as a bridge between the thrilling world of motorsport and the precision engineering required to create road-legal vehicles, offering a glimpse into what is possible when passion and expertise come together. Though the 962CR may have been Vern Schuppan’s only car creation, its legacy continues to inspire and captivate automotive enthusiasts around the world. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | KATANA LTD. | HYPEBEAST | AUTOEVOLUTION | STUTTCARS | BINGOSPORTSWORLD | SUPERCARS.NET | WIKIPEDIA ]

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