"Roxanne" Thunderbird custom to be auctioned in US

Based on a 1957 Thunderbird, Roxanne was originally built by Tom Culberston of Culbertson's Customs in Indianapolis, Indiana. Inspiration for this one-off came from the wild show cars built by George Barris and Ed "Big Daddy" Roth in the 1950s and 60s golden era of customs.

Culbertson's body modifications, which were all done in steel, include '59 Lincoln headlights, '59 Buick tail lights, shaved door handles, custom grille and tail panels, a chopped windscreen and large rear tail fins which give the Thunderbird a rocketship-like appearance.

Under the bonnet, Roxanne features a high performance 351 Ford V8 and matching Ford C4 auto transmission, both of which were rebuilt prior to installation. The engine bay is show-prepared, with the block and heads finished in gold. Other details include a custom air cleaner and Mickey Thompson rocker covers with T-bar fasteners, custom 'Starlet' rocker cover lettering and gold detailing.

The interior features a 1961 Chrysler glass dome dash, C1960 Plymouth 'Aero' steering wheel, custom gear shifter, telephone and classic diamond pleated white naugayhyde on the seats, floormats, doors and even the firewall. The boot has been fitted with a retro 1950s television and matching accessories. According to the auction description by Barrett-Jackson, the interior features have been finished in 14k gold paint.

This car has won every major show entered in the 'Radical Custom' class, including The Oakland Roadster Show, Sacramento Roadster Show and Lead Sled East. Despite being built as a show car, the auction description says Roxanne also runs and drives great.

Last auctioned through Auctions America by RM at their Auburn Fall auction in September, 2013, Culbertson's radical custom car sold for US$28,050. At Barrett-Jackson, Roxanne will be offered at No Reserve (awards and trophies not included).

Barrett-Jackson's massive Scottsdale, Arizona, auction runs from January 12 to 19, 2014. Roxanne is scheduled to cross the blocks on Wednesday, January 15. For further details, go to: www.barrett-jackson.com

images: courtesy of Barrett-Jackson