The Grand National Roadster Show 2025 just wrapped up, and what a show it was! This wasn’t just another year at Pomona’s Fairplex—this was the 75th anniversary of the longest-running indoor car show in the world, and it delivered on every level. From the custom builds to the energy of the Grand Daddy Drive-In, this year’s event was one for the books.
Woodside Credit does NOT finance the build of a hot rod, but can finance completed projects in good and operational condition.
A Legacy of Hot Rodding Excellence
The Grand National Roadster Show (GNRS) has a history that stretches back to 1950, originally known as the Oakland Roadster Show before it moved to Pomona in 2004. Over the years, it has become the gold standard for recognizing the finest hot rods, customs, and classic builds—a true gathering place for the best builders and enthusiasts from all over.
And for the 75th anniversary, GNRS went all out. One of the standout features this year was the special display of past winners—over 50 legendary AMBR (America’s Most Beautiful Roadster) and Slonaker Memorial Award winners, curated in collaboration with the Petersen Automotive Museum. It was like stepping into the ultimate hall of fame of hot rodding history.
Show Highlights: The Best of the Best at GNRS 2025
The Grand Daddy Drive-In: Where Classics Meet Custom Creations
If you didn’t make it into the main halls, the Grand Daddy Drive-In was the next best thing—some would argue, an even better experience. Hundreds of hot rods, muscle cars, classics, and trucks rolled into the Fairplex parking lot, giving enthusiasts a chance to show off their rides without committing to a full indoor display.
It was the perfect mix of old-school tradition and modern custom creativity. Whether you were checking out pristine vintage restorations or wild, chopped, and slammed customs, the Drive-In proved that car culture is alive and well. The parking lot felt like a never-ending car show, and each day brought a fresh lineup of incredible rides
2025 Slonaker Memorial Award Winner: A Pontiac That Stole the Show
The Slonaker Memorial Award, which honors the best non-roadster build, went to Bill Barbato’s 1933 Pontiac Sedan—a masterpiece that combined flawless engineering, period-correct details, and modern innovation. This wasn’t just a beautiful car; it was a build that showcased next-level craftsmanship, earning its place among some of the most iconic winners in GNRS history.
2025 America’s Most Beautiful Roadster (AMBR) Winner: A ‘36 Ford with Serious Presence
The America’s Most Beautiful Roadster (AMBR) Award, one of the most prestigious honors in hot rodding, went to Ross Myers’ 1936 Ford Roadster, built by Rad Rides by Troy. This wasn’t just a show car—it was perfection on wheels. Competing against ten of the country’s top roadsters, the fenderless ‘36 Ford stood out with its stunning design, precision engineering, and timeless styling.
Winning AMBR is no small feat, and with a $12,500 prize from ARP Fasteners, Myers’ roadster cemented its legacy in hot rodding history.
Builder of the Year: Bill Ganahl & South City Rod and Custom
If you follow the world of custom cars, you know Bill Ganahl and South City Rod and Custom are at the forefront of the scene. Their work speaks for itself—flawless execution, period-correct styling, and a deep respect for traditional hot rodding. This year, GNRS honored Ganahl with the Builder of the Year award, a well-deserved nod to his impact on the industry.
Whether you were there to compete, showcase, or simply take in the sights, GNRS 2025 offered something for every enthusiast. With each passing year, the bar continues to rise, and the passion for hot rodding remains as strong as ever.
If you missed this year’s show, mark your calendar for Jan. 30-Feb. 1, 2026!
Thinking About Your Own Hot Rod?
After seeing all these incredible builds, it’s impossible not to start thinking about your next vehicle. Whether you’re looking at a classic hot rod, a rare muscle car, or collector vehicle like a Porsche 911 or Corvette, financing should be the easiest part of the process.
That’s where Woodside Credit comes in. With the lowest monthly payments in America, an easy process designed for collectors and enthusiasts, and terms that actually make sense for car lovers, owning a show-worthy car has never been more achievable.
Woodside Credit does NOT finance the build of a hot rod, but can finance completed projects in good and operational condition.
