Stephen Schock’s “Klasse Koupe” 1932 Ford by AVS Fabrication
When you’re asked to work on a special car that someone has owned more than 60 years, it’s a responsibility you should take seriously. Allen Vershave at AVS Fabrication responded accordingly while crafting the latest version of Stephen Schock’s ’32 Ford coupe, a car Schock bought back in 1962. Allan and his AVS team used impeccable craftsmanship and innovative engineering to turn the coupe into a stunning modern street rod.
Schock originally had to borrow money from his grandfather to buy the car, which was a period hot rod with blue metalflake paint and an Olds Rocket engine. It evolved several times through the decades, including a ’70s redo with a small-block Chevy engine and a Corvette independent rear. But Schock says this latest version, dubbed the “Klasse Koupe,” is the best one yet.
That might be because of the potent modern engine – a 427c.i. Chevy LS7 built by Shaver Racing Engines using Brodix heads, a Comp camshaft, and twin turbos hidden under the floor feeding the Holley intake. The beautifully detailed engine produces an incredible 1200-horsepower, sending it through a 4L85E transmission.
All that power requires a sturdy foundation, which AVS created with a custom chassis featuring Kugel polished stainless independent front and rear suspensions. There’s a lot of custom fabrication and plumbing to accommodate the hidden turbos, including a rear-mounted radiator and a turbo intercooler behind the grille. Wilwood 13-inch disc brakes are used fore and aft behind Billet Specialties 18×8- and 19×10-inch wheels wrapped in Nitto tires.
The AVS team gave the coupe body plenty of attention, with Jason Arrigo leading the way on metalwork. Beyond the 3-inch top chop, the coupe’s nose is stretched, the rear fenders are widened, and the smooth firewall and floors are custom fabricated. Dave Vershave at AVS handled the finish bodywork and applied the brilliant House of Kolor Candy Tangerine finish.
A wood-grained dash lends an elegant feel inside. It’s fitted with Classic Instruments and has a custom lower panel to house the Vintage Air controls, vents, and other switches. A Billet Specialties wheel is mounted to the Flaming River tilt column, while Mazda bucket seats have been stitched by Ron Mangus in brown leather, with door panels and the floor covered to match. A Lokar shifter is mounted in the custom console.
Completed in time to compete for the Slonaker Award at the 2023 Grand National Roadster Show, the Klasse Koupe followed up its Chevrolet Performance GM Retro Iron Builder of the Year finalist spot in Scottsdale by becoming a Top Five finalist for Meguiar’s Street Rod D’Elegance in Del Mar. The accolades have been great, but Stephen seems just as excited about the prospect of giving his grandchildren rides in this longtime family hot rod.
Photos by Mike Christensen, Damon Lee & Todd Ryden
