The 2023 SEMA Show in Las Vegas had no shortage of jaw-dropping, eye-popping, can’t-believe-they-did-that vehicles this year. From over-the-top builds to tasteful, slick customizations, it was a car lover’s paradise. Here’s a look at the top five vehicles that stole the show, proving once again why SEMA is like Christmas morning for anyone even remotely interested in cars.
1960 Buick Invicta “X60”
Andy Leach’s custom 1960 Buick Invicta, known as the “X-60,” took home the grand prize in SEMA’s prestigious Battle of the Builders competition. Crafted at Cal Automotive Creations, this build reflects a Jet Age aesthetic, drawing inspiration from the B-52 bomber. It took Leach nine years to complete, preserving the car’s vintage elegance while adding modern performance elements. The Invicta’s reengineered body and CAD-designed brass trim elevate its appearance, while a crank-driven supercharger, paired with a custom front-drive setup, powers the classic 401 Nailhead engine, delivering both an impressive look and powerful performance.
1966 Toyota FJ “Bruiser”
Toyota’s FJ “Bruiser” brought a rugged charm to SEMA’s off-road lineup. This heavily modified FJ45 pickup came equipped with a 725-horsepower NASCAR V8 engine and rolled in on towering 42-inch tires. It represents a tribute to Toyota’s heritage while appealing to the modern overland crowd who value durability and versatility on tough terrain.
1969 Dodge Charger “Tusk”
Ringbrothers brought their A-game with “Tusk,” a 1969 Dodge Charger that stayed true to its muscle car roots while boasting significant performance enhancements. Under the hood, the Charger packs a new 640-horsepower supercharged GM LT4 engine. The Ringbrothers’ precise approach to modification kept the exterior faithful to the Charger’s original lines, while hiding substantial upgrades underneath.
Kevin Hart’s 1970 Dodge Challenger “BANE”
Kevin Hart’s 1970 Dodge Challenger, dubbed “BANE,” made waves for its sinister look and exceptional build quality. Created by Salvaggio Design, this Challenger embodies a dark, powerful aesthetic inspired by the iconic Batman villain. Under the hood, “BANE” packs a supercharged 426 HEMI V8 engine that pumps out an impressive 1,000 horsepower, making it as powerful as it is visually striking. Finished in a sleek, blacked-out look with custom carbon fiber accents, Hart’s Challenger combines vintage muscle car heritage with a modern, aggressive style that stole the spotlight at the show
1946 Willys Jeepster “Amigo” by Weaver Customs
The 1946 Willys Jeepster “Amigo,” built by Weaver Customs, brought a touch of nostalgia to SEMA 2023 with a twist. This vintage-inspired custom is designed for overlanding, equipped with a Cummins R2.8 turbodiesel engine for both power and efficiency. Painted in a warm, desert-inspired palette, “Amigo” captures an adventurous spirit with modern off-road modifications like a lifted suspension, off-road tires, and roof-mounted gear for rugged exploration. With a refined interior featuring leather and retro design details, the Jeepster “Amigo” was one of the standout builds that celebrated both history and adventure
