Dirk Vanzuuk, a self described Mad Max fanatic, and die-hard Camaro enthusiast was hit with some bad news. After a go-karting accident sent him for a neck x-ray, doctors noticed asymptomatic tumors had formed in his throat and lymph node. This required immediate radiation therapy, as the story is told by Road & Track.
The problem was, Vanzuuk had previously landed a spot for the Mad Max premiere in New York City, and he pleaded with doctors he be fixed up in time for the premiere. Unfortunately, the premiere came and went.
But Vanzuuk’s health stayed. And, after beating his cancer, he decided some modifications needed to be done to his personal 1969 Chevrolet Camaro. Vanzuuk scooped up the 1969 Camaro 10 years ago with no rust, but minor body damage. Instead of transforming into a garage queen, the 1969 Camaro was turned road racer with many track days under its belt.
So, why the mods after Vanzuuk’s stint in the hospital? Because he was released just in time for opening weekend of Mad Max. And being the creative mind he is (Vanzuuk is also an artist and sign maker) some film appropriate extra were added for a stunning 1969 Camaro piece fit for a Mad Max fan’s dream.
And the soundtrack alone accompanying this build should land it a spot in the actual film. The 1969 Camaro has an entirely rebuilt engine producing 500 hp, and it sounds magnificent as Vanzuuk hoons about for us.
Thanks to R&T, we get a wonderful clip of this machine in action. Watch for yourself below.
Comments
it’s nice to see a well loved car that is also thoroughly enjoyed as it should be. I have no hate for trailer queens, but I do Have a mild disdain for the types who own and maintain them. Whats the point? No matter how rare, well optioned, or valuable, it’s still just a car. And serves no real purpose or inspirational value sitting locked away in some garage, or static at a car show.
Especially a once common as dirt muscle car, or collectible import. OR ANY old race car for that matter.
Cars are like wild animals…best enjoyed and only truly appreciated, when witnessed in action, in their natural environment doing what made them legendary in the first place.