UPDATE: In a stunning turn of events, Rex Satterfield’s 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air convertible has just won the coveted Ridler Award at the 2026 Detroit Autorama, marking a pinnacle moment in the custom car industry. The award was announced on the final day of the event, which ran from February 27 to March 1 at Huntington Place, Detroit.
Satterfield, who hails from Russellville, Tennessee, expressed his disbelief: “It’s just overwhelming right now. We weren’t expecting this.” Initially, he aimed for one of the BASF Great 8 finalist spots, but this honor surpasses anything he could have imagined.
The Ridler Award, one of the highest accolades in custom automotive craftsmanship, is awarded to vehicles that showcase exceptional design and execution. The 2026 Autorama is the 73rd iteration of this celebrated event, where cars undergo a rigorous judging process to establish their merit among the world’s finest custom vehicles.
This year, Satterfield’s car, affectionately named “Elegant Lady,” is distinguished by its creamy exterior, known as Light Coffee, and is powered by a formidable 1,000 horsepower Don Hardy race engine. Its unique features include custom gauges, wheels, a gas tank, and a dash sourced from a 1956 Pontiac.
The journey to this triumph was not without its challenges. The original builder, Jeff Wolfenbarger, passed away in December 2024 after a brave battle with cancer. He continued to work on the Bel Air up until his final days. Kevin Riffey of Kevin Riffey’s Hot Rods and Restorations in Knoxville stepped in to complete the project. Riffey has previously had two other vehicles make the Great 8, showcasing his expertise in the field.
Satterfield plans to take “Elegant Lady” to various shows, savoring every moment of this incredible achievement. The Ridler Award comes with a $10,000 prize, further amplifying the significance of this win.
As car enthusiasts around the world celebrate this extraordinary accomplishment, Satterfield’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the passion and dedication that drives the custom car community. Stay tuned for more updates on this and other exciting developments from the automotive world.
