Nine Years of Building a Gorgeous Ride
A California-based builder and his 1960 Buick Invicta Custom have taken home the top prize at the Mothers Battle of the Builders competition at the 2023 SEMA Show. The winning car, nicknamed the “X-60,” is a stunning automotive feat that draws inspiration from the iconic Boeing B-52 Stratofortress.
Constructed to exacting specifications by Andy Leach of Cal Auto Creations over a period of nine years, this automobile reconfigures what Buick could have done with the Invicta. To begin with, Andy reduced the front end by two inches from the original Buick full-size model while multiplying the length of the car’s hood.
At first glance, the car appears to be unmodified, but the original “cheek guards” have been replaced with a wedged bumper that sits perfectly against the car’s front edges. The rear has been completely redesigned with a handcrafted one-piece bumper, brass trims, and the VentiPorts from the front quarter panels have been removed.
The end product of these transformations is a much more energetic appearance, as if it is hurling down a slope. Particularly noteworthy, Andy chose to maintain its roof uncut and stock. He reduced chrome details contrasted to the original vehicle. With this in mind, it resembles a current Buick such as the Enclave or the more technically advanced Encore GX, both of which carry the chromed styling that the company is appreciated for.
Enhancing the look of the motorcar are 19-inch wheels. Surprisingly, these are not adorned with genuine whitewall tires. Rather, a low-profile Pirelli is used to accommodate a modern braking system and supply the desired capability complementary to what the ride contains in its engine compartment.
The true showstopper of the X-60 is its 401 Nailhead serviceable engine. With a crank-driven turbo, it can potentially generate up to 600 horsepower – although one would hardly expect to find something as captivatingly pristine as this at their nearby drag racing venue. But more evidence that this classic automobile is meant for showcasing alone is revealed in its chicly refashioned interior which is clearly created for utmost comfort and elegance.
Andy’s handmade Invicta is a masterpiece of automotive craftsmanship slated to feature on the forthcoming SEMA: Battle of the Builders show airing on the History Channel come January 2024.
