The Chromaro was purchased on June 16, 1971—54 years ago—for $700. At the time, it had 105,000 hard-earned miles on the odometer and quickly became a daily driver, used year-round. In 1978, the vehicle was struck from behind by a drunk driver, requiring a full rear clip replacement, including the roof, sourced from a 1968 Camaro. Despite the damage, it remained on the road until it reached 268,000 miles, at which point it was retired in 1982 to undergo a complete, frame-off restoration that would span the next ten years. During the restoration, all-new GM sheet metal, glass, moldings, and bumpers were installed. The build was powered by a new 454 GM engine equipped with a 671 BDS blower, twin 750 Holley carburetors, a 175-amp alternator, high-torque MSD starter, MSD electronic distributor, and a Turbo 400 transmission. Cooling was handled by an oversized Be Cool radiator with dual electric fans. The rear end was upgraded to a shortened Ford 9-inch with Centerline wheels and massive 29 x 18.5 Hoosier radials. The suspension featured ladder bars, a cross-diagonal link, and coilovers. The interior was fully customized, including a Hurst dual-gate shifter, a custom console with a five-gauge angled panel for engine monitoring, and six-way power bucket seats upholstered in black velour. Unique Chromaro badging was added to complement the custom identity. The paintwork was a standout feature: a House of Kolor three-stage finish, beginning with primer, followed by a gold base coat, and topped with Candy Brandywine. Hand-painted graphics with genuine gold leaf were applied and sealed with Spies Hecker Urethane High Glamour Clear. Since the restoration was completed, the Chromaro has been driven over 120,000 additional miles, bringing the total mileage on original components to over 410,000 miles. The car has won hundreds of awards and is a five-time national champion. It was built as a tribute to the owner's father, who never saw the finished project but always believed it would be something special.