The 2026 AMBR & Slonaker Memorial Winners and More from the Grand National Roadster Show
The Grand National Roadster Show wrapped up their 76th event last night after three stellar days packed with the best cars from across the country, unique halls featuring customs, fat-fenders, classic trucks and of course, the 20th year of the Suede Palace. There are loads of awards presented on Sunday evening including the two biggies – the Al Slonaker Memorial Award and the America’s Most Beautiful Roadster.
Twelve amazing machines were in the running for the Slonaker title ranging from a Karmann Ghia to an F100, street rods, a Studebaker, a Chevelle and Roadrunner, and a pair of tri-fives. Each ride was incredible, but come Sunday night, the big winner Dennis Troggio and his ’55 VW Karmann Ghia built by Type One Restorations. The little VW is amazing from the inside out with custom sheet metal work coated in a dark green over olive paint, an interior by the Recovery Room and a wicked little 2.4L flat-four with tremendous details throughout.
Then it was time for the AMBR to be named and just like the Slonaker and many other awards, the nine roadsters strutting their stuff in building four were all stunning. In the end, the traditional styled hot rodded ’32 owned by Nicole Baird was declared the winner. The bright blue Deuce was built by Squeeg’s Kustoms and features a Hilborn injected 401 Nailhead managed by a Holley EFI system, an interior also stitched by Recovery Room, mild body mods and rolls on wide whites sealed to classic chrome wheels.
The outdoor Grand Daddy Drive-In, in its 20th year, hosted more than 1,500 vehicles ranging from classic hot rods to modern customs and the popular pinstriper auction raised more than $70,000 for the Every ONE Free Foundation. The GNRS returns in 2027 on February 5 – 7 so you can already save-the-date! Check out a few more images from the show below.
