The EJ20, affectionately known as “mango” because of the body’s resemblance to the fruit, was the second-best selling car in the world at one time.

In describing how his 1949 Mercury Coupe came to be, owner Rocky Dias has a simple explanation: “I don’t know what to do, but I know what I want.”

PHOTOS BY JAMES GARRETT / Special to the Star-Advertiser

Everybody knows someone who can’t leave well enough alone. Matthew Pasion is that someone, and tinkering is what he loves doing. He’s owned a handful of vehicles, including minitrucks, BMWs, a Lexus and a Chrysler SRT8, and every single one of them has been modified.

Let’s get straight to the point: This 2005 Lexus LS430 is one of the finest examples of VIP that I have ever seen.

Deanna Dela Pena Yee has been surrounded by some of the best custom vehicles ever made. Her father, Bena, was a well-known gear head who produced custom cars, and her husband, Alan, is also a noted custom fabricator.

Esket Padeken enjoys unique vehicles. As a chef and business owner, his career has allowed him to partake in a wide selection of vehicles, including VWs, Toyotas, Chevys, Dodges and more.

By Michael Kitchens OWNER: Dennis Batangan AGE: 37 HOBBIES: Sports, cars ENGINE: 7MGTE 3.0L Inline 6, Lexus V8 AFM, 550xx RC Injectors, HKS intake, MSD ignition wires, Dual Core Racing Radiator, Carbon Fiber Cooling Plate, 3-inch downpipe with open dump tube, 3-inch Apexi N1 Exhaust, SARD AFPR, Walbro Fuel Pump, TRD oil and radiator cap, ACT […]

If you’re looking for some festive cheer, try taking a ride in Carlos Saenz’s rocking sleigh of turbo goodness — a 2002 Audi TT that has been modified to extremes both visually and internally.

While growing up in China, Changxin Zhang was literally worlds apart when it came to being an automotive enthusiast…it didn’t even register at the time.