Mecum Auctions, a renowned leader in collector car sales, is joining forces with the internationally recognized West Coast Customs to support the next generation of automotive professionals. In a charitable endeavor, select, highly customized vehicles from the personal collection of Ryan Friedlinghaus, the founder and CEO of West Coast Customs, will be offered at Dana Mecum’s 38th Original Spring Classic auction. This prestigious event is scheduled to take place in May at the Indiana State Fairgrounds. Notably, all proceeds generated from the sale of these unique cars will be directly donated to the West Coast Customs Academy, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing comprehensive education and skills training to students aspiring to careers within the custom automotive industry.
The West Coast Customs Academy plays a crucial role in empowering individuals by equipping them with the necessary skills to thrive in the dynamic and specialized field of custom automotive work. Founded on the principle of providing opportunities to those who might otherwise lack them, the academy offers hands-on training and theoretical knowledge in a state-of-the-art facility located in Los Angeles. To further the academy’s mission and support its educational programs, Ryan Friedlinghaus, the driving force behind West Coast Customs, has generously decided to auction five distinctive customized vehicles from his personal collection. Mecum Auctions, since its inception in 1988, has a long-standing tradition of community involvement and is proud to collaborate with the West Coast Customs Academy, adding it to the list of impactful charitable organizations it has supported over the years.
Ryan Friedlinghaus, the Founder and CEO of West Coast Customs, expressed his enthusiasm for this collaborative effort, stating, “I am honored to be collaborating with the amazing team at Mecum Auctions. This partnership will provide valuable funding that will make a difference in the lives of many students looking to learn the trade of custom auto work who would otherwise not have the opportunity to do so. I am grateful and look forward to a long-term collaborative effort that will positively impact West Coast Customs Academy students for years to come.” This sentiment underscores the shared commitment of both organizations to invest in the future of the custom automotive industry.
The collection of vehicles being offered represents the diverse and creative spirit of West Coast Customs. The first vehicle is the West Coast Customs Academy’s very own 1997 Toyota 4Runner. This project was a hands-on endeavor for the academy’s class of 2024, showcasing their skills in custom air suspension installation and the creation of unique aesthetics, featuring 18-inch billet custom wheels wrapped in a distinctive flame and pin-striped paint job. Following the 4Runner is a truly unique West Coast Customs creation: a 23XI 2022 Toyota Camry Street Legal Race Car. This vehicle boasts a one-of-a-kind aerodynamic package, blending the worlds of racing and street customization. Bringing a dose of iconic muscle car heritage to the lineup is a 2006 Dodge Charger, custom-built with a bespoke chassis and finished in the unmistakable “General Lee” livery from the famed “Dukes of Hazard” television series. Adding a touch of modern flair is a showstopping 2012 Volkswagen Passat, notable for its custom red lighting integrated into the headlights, grille, and an under-glow effect, creating a visually striking presence. Rounding out this exceptional collection is a spectacular 2018 Slingshot, transformed into the U.S.S. Discovery from the Star Trek universe. This imaginative build features a 3D hood with side wings and rides on 20-inch Lexani air-brushed wheels, demonstrating the boundless creativity of West Coast Customs.
Dana Mecum’s 38th Original Spring Classic promises to be an exciting event, further amplified by this charitable offering from West Coast Customs. For enthusiasts interested in attending the auction or learning more about the vehicles being offered, detailed information, including descriptions and photographs, as well as a comprehensive auction and event schedule, is available on Mecum Auctions’ official website, Mecum.com. Additionally, inquiries can be directed to Mecum Auctions by calling (262) 275-5050. Mecum’s website is updated daily with the latest consignments and event details.
West Coast Customs, headquartered in a state-of-the-art 60,000 square-foot facility in Burbank, California, has been a driving force in the car customization industry since 1993. Founded by Ryan Friedlinghaus, the company is internationally recognized for its innovative designs, cutting-edge technology, and unparalleled craftsmanship. Their flagship facility houses 12 leading-edge departments, offering a wide range of custom services for projects of any scale. Over the years, West Coast Customs has built impeccably customized vehicles for a diverse clientele, including professional athletes, actors, musicians, Fortune 100 companies, and even royalty, solidifying its reputation as a game-changing phenomenon in the automotive world.
The West Coast Customs Academy, operating within the West Coast Customs headquarters in Burbank, California, offers an immersive and intricate curriculum developed by Ryan Friedlinghaus. The academy has successfully graduated three classes of aspiring automotive artisans, providing invaluable hands-on training taught by the Master Craftsmen at West Coast Customs. The curriculum covers specific automotive disciplines, culminating in students undertaking an actual final custom automotive project, providing them with real-world experience and skills essential for their future careers.
Mecum Auctions, established in 1988, has solidified its position as a world leader in the sales of collector cars, vintage motorcycles, and Road Art® for over three decades. The company prides itself on hosting family-friendly events that cater to car enthusiasts from all walks of life, ensuring there is something for everyone at their auctions. With a nationwide presence, Mecum hosts numerous auctions throughout the year, including the prestigious World’s Largest Collector Car Auction® held each January in Kissimmee, Florida. Their collaboration with West Coast Customs for this charitable cause further exemplifies their commitment to the automotive community.
Powertrain and Performance Details: Details regarding the specific power and engine specifications of each of the five custom vehicles being auctioned are not extensively provided in the press release. However, we can infer some information based on the vehicle models and the nature of West Coast Customs’ builds. The 1997 Toyota 4Runner likely retains its original engine, which would have been a gasoline-powered four or six-cylinder, though it has been heavily modified with custom suspension and aesthetics. The 2022 Toyota Camry Street Legal Race Car, being a custom build, may feature significant powertrain enhancements beyond its stock configuration, potentially including modifications for increased horsepower and performance. The 2006 Dodge Charger, styled as the General Lee, likely retains a V8 engine typical of that model year, with potential custom exhaust and engine tuning. The 2012 Volkswagen Passat’s modifications focus primarily on lighting and aesthetics, suggesting the powertrain may be largely stock, likely a gasoline or diesel four-cylinder. The 2018 Slingshot U.S.S. Discovery, being a unique three-wheeled vehicle, likely retains its original engine, a gasoline four-cylinder, with significant custom bodywork and wheels being the primary focus of the transformation.
Summary
- Mecum Auctions and West Coast Customs partner for a charity event.
- Five customized vehicles from Ryan Friedlinghaus’s personal collection will be auctioned.
- All proceeds will benefit the West Coast Customs Academy.
- The collection includes a 1997 Toyota 4Runner (WCC Academy build).
- A 2022 Toyota Camry Street Legal Race Car (WCC custom).
- A 2006 Dodge Charger (General Lee inspired).
- A 2012 Volkswagen Passat (custom lighting).
- A 2018 Slingshot (Star Trek U.S.S. Discovery inspired).
- The auction will be part of Dana Mecum’s 38th Original Spring Classic in May.
- West Coast Customs Academy provides education in the custom automotive industry.
- Mecum Auctions has a history of supporting charitable causes.
Disclaimer: Details regarding the specific modifications and performance specifications of the auctioned vehicles are based on the provided information and general knowledge of West Coast Customs’ builds.
Source: Mecum Auctions
AI Assistance: Gemini
