It’s Not What You See at SEMA, it’s Where it Leads You

By Brian Brennan

ack from SEMA, I have had time to reflect on the event and its significance in our automotive hobby. SEMA showcases numerous products that support current projects and pave the way for future endeavors. It makes me think about the companies that have shaped this industry from its inception to the present day.

Between 1953 and 1975, the hot rod world exploded, particularly in the late ’60s and early ’70s, as new manufacturers catered to the everyday enthusiast, providing the building blocks for both pride and performance on the open road. This era brought numerous innovations that transformed ordinary vehicles into high-powered machines. In my early years, I marveled at the factory muscle cars and began to explore the early hot rods my friends’ older brothers were obsessed with.

The 1950s marked the rise of “performance camshafts,” with Isky Racing Cams at the forefront. Their designs offered increased horsepower through advancements such as the 3/4 race cam and solid-lifter performance. The first off-the-shelf supercharger systems debuted in this era, with GMC’s 4-71, 6-71, and 8-71 blowers becoming staples in performance upgrades.

In the 1960s, high-performance intake manifolds emerged, with legends like Edelbrock and Offenhauser leading the charge. This decade also saw dual exhaust systems become standard on street machines and headers replace factory manifolds, enhancing exhaust flow and engine efficiency while producing an exhilarating sound.

Carburetor upgrades were prevalent, with Holley and Rochester offering performance models like the Holley 4150, which provided better fuel delivery and tuning options. As vehicles gained speed, the need for reliable braking systems grew, prompting companies like Wilwood to create high-performance brake kits with larger rotors and multi-piston calipers for improved stopping power.

Tires also evolved during this time, with larger, “sticky” rubber compounds enhancing traction and handling. The aftermarket scene began to flourish, introducing oversized wheels that improved both appearance and performance. By the late ’70s and into the ’80s, billet aluminum wheels (thank you, Lil’ John Buttera) became ubiquitous, allowing car guys to personalize their hot rods.

Engine swap kits made it simpler for gearheads to upgrade their engines, broadening performance possibilities. (Do you remember the Herbert & Meeks V-8 swap kits for models like Vega, Pinto, and Tri-Five Chevys gaining popularity?) The introduction of performance chips around 1975 allowed for tuning adjustments, beginning a shift toward modern engine management systems.

The era was also marked by the advent of aluminum cylinder heads, led by manufacturers such as Edelbrock, Holley, and World Products. These lightweight components greatly improved airflow and horsepower, revolutionizing engine performance. The ’60s also saw fiberglass body kits introduced by companies like Ai Fiberglass, Poli-Form, Gibbon, and Wescott, pushing customization to new heights.

From 1969 to 1980, the aftermarket street rod industry thrived. Organizations like the National Street Rod Association (NSRA) and Goodguys Rod & Custom Association played critical roles in promoting growth through regional and national events. In 1969, aftermarket kits allowed enthusiasts to replace outdated drum brakes with efficient disc brakes (the ubiquitous Wilwood), paving the way for further performance upgrades. The introduction of tubular control arms in the early ’80s provided a modern suspension solution that enhanced braking and steering capabilities. Innovation continued into the mid-1970s with adjustable coilover suspension systems (remember Frank Aldana, Aldan shocks) that customized ride height and improved overall comfort. (It is all about the ride height for appearance—suffer for vanity’s sake.)

1972 saw the debut of Street Rodder magazine, a key resource that connected the community with hundreds of advertisers and technical articles.

The Pro Street style emerged in 1973, blending the practicality of daily driving with the fierce performance traits of drag racing. Around 1977, aftermarket companies offered complete dash kits featuring modern gauges, merging classic style with contemporary technology. The restoration parts market expanded dramatically in the late ’70s as enthusiasts sought to maintain their classic vehicles.

By 1978, the availability of A/C systems (thanks to Vintage Air) and complete wiring harnesses (thanks to Ron Francis Wiring, Painless Performance Products, and American Autowire) simplified assembly for newcomers by 1979. It was also at this time that the introduction of specialized insurance products to protect our hot rods caught on.

As we entered the 1980s, the focus shifted to major performance upgrades, such as independent rear suspension systems (can you say Kugel Komponents and Heidts), promising better handling and a smoother ride. Aftermarket tuning chips also became available, allowing drivers to maximize engine output.

Today, not a single aspect of a street rod build—from the 1950s through today—lacks options for replication or even superior alternatives. We live in an era of à la carte hot rodding, where one can take a dream vehicle and customize it using modern components, improving ride quality while enjoying the convenience of increased horsepower and reliability.

With advancements in computers, CNC machines, EFI, and a growing list of talented builders, our hobby is primed for a bright and prosperous future. I look forward to what lies ahead.