The "HIROHATA MERC" has always been one of my Favorite Customs of ALL-TIME, and in the very first Interview that GEORGE BARRIS and I did a few years back I wanted to make sure that was one topic that we covered.
George has such a great facilty for remembering complete details of ALL of the cars that he (and Sam) built, so I think you'll find out some truly fascinating details about this true Legendary Kustom that you may have never known before.
This is the car that started many Industry Trends: Buick Sidetrim on Mercs, Turning a Sedan into a Hard Top, Organic Two-Tone Paint, Fadeaway Fenders into the Scoops/Rear Quarters, Floating Grille, etc.
It is with great pleasure that I present to you the true story of the building of : "The Hirohata Merc". Enjoy ! JK
(Above left: Bob Hirohata and his '51 Merc. Above right: The restored Hirohata Merc.)
(Above left: The New 1951 Mercury Monterey. Above right: Ad for the New 1951 Mercury Sport Sedan.)
EXTRA PIX !
(Above left: Bob Hirohata gassing up the Merc ! (How low can you go ?!); Above right: The Merc at the Barris Shop )
