Few know about the Chrysler PT Cruiser. Even though it was popular when it was released, people now say it looks ancient. If it had a Hemi V8, it could be less pathetic. The American Gasser Hot Rod Shop in Saginaw, Michigan, built a car with a similar concept. Now we can enjoy it. Current Cruiser owners bought it in the early 2000s. A retired 70-year-old couple has been utilizing the car as usual. Instead of replacing it, they called it American Gasser. Bruce and Kay discussed the Hemi Cruiser and decided to proceed. “As much of the factory interior as possible,” plus a few exterior adjustments to accommodate the car’s new drivetrain, make for a tidy construction. Justin Airbets from American Gasser says installing the 5.7-liter Hemi stock motor was difficult. He says, “All of the factory interior panels, seats, and even the console were kept and are fully functional, even though the transmission tunnel was added and the trunk floor was raised.” The building was complex. The Hemi Cruiser drives the back wheels, while the PT Cruiser always drives the front. The PT lacks a beam axle. Four triangulated links hold a Ford 9-inch solid rear axle. The PT Cruiser’s front chassis and suspension were inferior. Thus, Mustang II pieces were employed. The owners want the interior to resemble when they bought it. The car’s factory switches and features are still functional. Changing the drivetrain makes this more challenging to figure out. Instead of making the PT Cruiser a sleeper, the couple changed its exterior. Sporty automobile body panels are scarce, as expected. “Whatever spare parts are available don’t fit well.” Airbets worked hard to make sure everything met business needs. It’s obvious. Wilwood brakes, Rocket Racing wheels, and full steel exhaust completed the build. It debuted at the 2023 Detroit Autorama. Airbets said Bruce and Kay just got the car and plan to drive it and have fun all summer. Worse, it’s no garage queen. This car will be used for shopping, car shows, and more. PT Cruiser owners should be more driven like this duo.
