Mad Mike's Slammed C30 'BRODZR' - The Ultimate Cruiser You Can't Ignore
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In the world of custom builds and raw automotive ingenuity, few names resonate as profoundly as Mad Mike Whiddett. Known for his rotary-powered drift cars, the Kiwi legend has a knack for turning any vehicle into a jaw-dropping masterpiece. While many equate Mad Mike with his infamous Mazda creations, today we dive into one of his most intriguing undertakings from a decade ago – the Chevy C30 'BRODZR'. This isn't your average truck; it’s a testament to what happens when you blend American muscle with Mad Mike's relentless creative fervor.
America Meets Kiwi Ingenuity
Rewinding to 2014, it’s hard to overlook the impact of Mad Mike's builds on the global car scene. Among his notable works, the 'BRODZR' stands tall – or rather, low. Originally discovered in West Virginia, the 1983 Chevrolet C30 dually ticked all the right boxes: vintage charm, a sturdy C-notched chassis, and a functioning air ride system. It came into Mike’s life during a period when he owned another dually, a blacked-out Dodge Ram named 666SRT. However, due to changes in New Zealand’s vehicle compliance laws, the Dodge never made it back home, setting the stage for the C30 to take center stage.
From Rust to Riches: The Build
The vision for 'BRODZR' was simple yet ambitious – to create a slammed, old-school cruiser with Mad Mike’s signature touch. Upon procuring the C30, Mike quickly decided against a costly black-on-black paint job. Instead, he embraced its natural wear, leaving it in its primer-coated, patina-rich state. The result? A robust, rugged look that exudes character.
But this wasn’t just a cosmetic project. Mike teamed up with his friend Mat Addis from The Drop Shop in Auckland to transform the C30’s bones. Extensive chassis modifications, a custom four-link suspension arrangement, and industrial-strength C-notches were just a few of the enhancements. With the frame now able to sit higher into the bodywork, the truck could achieve that perfect ground-scraping stance.
The Devil is in the Details
Beyond the chassis work, subtle yet impactful exterior tweaks defined 'BRODZR'. The Phantom grille was reimagined to sit flush with the headlight mounts, while the bumpers were swapped for sleeker alternatives that enhanced the truck’s low profile. The factory fibreglass box over-fenders were cut and extended, enabling them to house the massive 24-inch Alcoa wheels – a standout feature that demands attention.
Performance-wise, beneath the hood sits a Chevrolet 454ci big block, offering raw power paired with an iconic roar, thanks to custom exhaust modifications. Though a Cummins turbo diesel engine swap is in the future plans, the current setup is far from lacking, boasting an Edelbrock Performer intake manifold and a four-barrel carburettor for added oomph.
Inside 'BRODZR'
While the exterior exudes toughness, the interior of 'BRODZR' remains true to its vintage roots. The factory C30 ‘Custom Deluxe’ trim features plush double-row bench seats wrapped in restored tan vinyl, complementing electric windows and a pristine raised transmission tunnel seamlessly integrated into the cabin. But Mad Mike wouldn't be Mad Mike without a killer sound system. Thanks to Fusion Electronics, the truck boasts a high-performance setup, including four 10-inch subwoofers and multiple amplifiers, ensuring the tunes are as powerful as the engine beneath the hood.
A Labor of Love
At its core, 'BRODZR' is a reflection of Mad Mike’s philosophy: Maximum impact through meticulous attention to detail. From custom vinyl wrap celebrating his son’s whimsical 'Low Mater' creation to its overall stance and structure, the C30 epitomizes what happens when passion meets precision. With every inch of the truck screaming unique craftsmanship, 'BRODZR' isn't just built to cruise – it’s built to captivate.
As Mike awaits the certification plate for the 'BRODZR', anticipation builds for its next lap around the block. If the sparks fly with every ride, that’s just the cherry on top.
Stay tuned for more updates and upcoming builds from Mad Mike’s garage.