Buying one of the most ridiculous vehicles Chevrolet ever made is just exactly the kind of thing that Hammond would do. Kudos to you for being you, Hammond!
I think retro-modding is the best way to do it. You could keep the paint, but I think it would look better in a classic 50's color scheme. Get the full retro covers like other people have suggested so they have that classic look with white wall tires. Then get a chrome/stainless grill to replace the plastic/yellow grill job and you get the Chevrolet badge itself replaced in stainless chrome as well with the old red lettering. Would be a really fun retro throwback, while keeping the car basically as is. While there you could replace the engine or any other body suspension work to make the ride better as you did the body work/painting.
It's a car that looks like a toy, so you should make it into a toy. Metal flake and pinstripes and supercharge that V8 with a big old air ram sticking out of the bonnet. A driveable Hot Wheels.
I personally think turning it into a panel van could be quite fun. I'm not sure you'd be able to keep the retractable hard top, at least not easily. But if you cant keep it you'd get rid of both the back lid mechanism and the retractable top mechanism, which would be quite the weight loss, and you'll have much more room. And on top of that you keep the spirit of a sports utility car with a neo-retro look!
Nobody seems to have said this, but I love these cars because they’re basically life sized Hot Wheels. It’s absolutely the kind of thing you can imagine Mattel coming up with which is awesome.
I like the idea that some have mentioned of doing it up retro style. Make it look more like a classic Chevy truck. How about a kind of retro mod? The outside looking like the old school with the inside(and the engine) feeling more futuristic? A combination of the old and the new that it was meant to be.
I've always loved these!!! Just like the Prowler en PT-Cruiser, it was an attempt to put a modern swing to a retro concept. I'd probably (also) go retro style. Lose the annoying decklid, wood-trim on the floor and the edges of the bed, two-tone paint-job, aluminium grille (instead of plastic) and side-steps and maybe white wall tires around steel rims, with polished center hubcaps... But it's your car, I'd love it just as much, if you'd get it restored to as new, inclding that gorgeous yellow. and those beautiful wheels..
I LOVE the old flare-side paintjob idea. I think it deserves to be customized and made even more unique, but I don't think making it look "mean" is what the car is about. A vintage two-tone flare-side scheme and whitewall tires would be ultra cool.
Little known fact , Hammond was actually born to a humble family in Ohio . He was then baby knapped and taken across the pond where he would spend the rest of his life seeking inner peace through buying autos that only someone from Ohio could get excited about. (it's ok for me to say that as I too came from Ohio).
I think you should turn it into a fun roadster because if you think about it, that is what it is. it's not a big burly work truck. it's just a fun roadster with a pretty big trunk (or boot as all of you across the pond like to call it). also I definitely like the yellow paint job so whatever you do, make sure you keep it yellow.
You know what? I also really love these it’s so beyond useless as a truck, that it moves beyond an automobile or vehicle to a work of art. The style, admittedly is an acquired taste but it’s one I’ve definitely acquired myself. Love it!
I’m with you Richard! I’m a big fan of the SS-R because it’s so completely different to anything normal or practical. As it’s “design” is supposed to hark back to the 3100 pickups of the 50’s how I think that accentuating the flareside is something worth doing. You could go with a pastel colour like the 50’s trucks or go older with two tone black and root beer brown like older trucks. Go old school with the wheels too
I saw one of these parked at a boat race once. The owner converted the front to look more like a Holden Ute and added a few things to make it into a track truck. I remember it being slightly lower and it looked very nice. I was stunned that it looked so clean.
I have to agree there's just something about a Chevy SSR that's unique and enjoyable while driving it. I've owned four Chevy SSRs over the last 20 years (one at a time). Getting the GM gremlins fixed with the SSR are probably the first things to address. There are a large number of aftermarket parts and upgrades for the SSR. I have a large number of videos on my channel showing the installation of many of those fixes and upgrades. I do like the two tone SSRs from the 2006 model year. That would be a nice cosmetic change for your SSR. Enjoy your unique ride!
It has an art-deco inspired kind of retro styling. based upon that, silver wheels, paint it a pastel green maybe something similar to Keswick green and lift it with some nice knobbies like general grabbers. Then put a wood veneer on top of the bed cover to finish it and it will look tops.
It was designed to be a retro throwback to hot rodding and unsurprisingly these look best when you lean into it. I would keep it yellow, give it some black scallops and some different rims.
First time I’ve come across this channel HOW haven’t I seen this before?! Just finished a Top Gear & Grand Tour complete rewatch and felt empty with nothing to go on to. So glad I have all this content from the best boys & car content. ⚙️🏎🏁🔧
Turning it into an oversized hotrod and leaning into it’s retro styling would be fun. Possibly a candy fleck paint job to really give it that hotrod look.
Love these and Prowlers, they're a bit odd, but fun. Maybe light metallic silver paint would work, so that the trim blends better or you could paint it to look like a work truck from the 60's with your own branding on the sides like "Hammond's Speed Shop".
What about the HHR that came around the same time? Around that time, both Ford and Chevy came out with retro style cars, probably on the heels of the Chrysler PT Cruisers. Ford didn't go full in, though, and just came out with a retro styled Thunderbird.
I like the idea of bringing the SSR back to its roots. Repaint it in black (keeping it yellow would work as well), change the rims so that they resemble the retro rims from the original Chevy pickup (the ones with the chrome "plate" in the middle), and remove the lid in the back, or at least make it more practical. Also, it would be interesting to see the SSR with Whitewall tires
This sounds awesome. I would also continue the retro theme by fitting a proper wooden bed floor, maybe some small wood railings on each side (after removing the lid). Chrome the long horizontal grille bars in the front to make them look more retro. And a small sun protector above the windshield, like one of those baseball-cap looking things.
As someone who loves 2000's tuner styling and games such as the nfs underground series, it would be pretty cool to see something like that with this. Not saying you need spinners and split hoods etc (imo that may even be overkill lol) but an interesting paint job, interior mods, maybe a little bigger rims, maybe even a sound system etc. However, the flair side truck look you mentioned would be very interesting to see and I think this look can nicely applied here, but at the end if the day you should go for what makes you happy.
This is my favorite vehicle any of you three have ever brought on one of the trips. Two tone - maybe a grey and red, all trim black, new silver wheels, get it sitting and sounding right. Gives it a bit of that American V8 meanness and a custom look while not being a basic blacked out look and taking away from the whimsy of it.
I think going wild with it in the way of making it look like an old truck would be pretty nifty. Possibly paint the hard top bed cover to look like the wood slats of the older generations and paint it to look like it’s a barn find patina.
The SSR is going to be collectable. Built in small volumes, was never meant to be a mass market vehicle in the first place. I would supercharge it, do Rims/Tires/Suspension/Exhaust, and the outside, I would restore to its original glory. Sometimes keeping it simple, is the right way to go. Glad you saved it👍
Not so sure about the "collectable", these are certainly not blowing up the market.... Hey, folks, if you loved your SSR, great. Enjoy it. But please don't forget that there are two factors: Scarcity, and Desireabity. Without both, you just end up with a charming old oddball, and a retirement plan destroyed.
@@operator6471 just depends on what your gonna after. Yellow is a low volume color adding to it's exclusivity. I would be more interested in keeping it as original as possible and hold onto it as a collectors piece.
I realise this may sound gaudy and loud but I firmly believe the SSR would suit a purple/blue metallic flake paintjob with subtle ghost flames and silver pinstriping, paying homage to the hot rod/lowrider culture, something similar to what you'd typically see on Hot Wheels.
I have ALWAYS loved and wanted one of these. Yes, they are impractical, but just as you said, its a fun concept. The intent was a retro/throwback when Dodge was doing that, (i.e., the PT Cruiser). So if I had an SSR and the budget, I think it would be a lot of fun to take it back to the retro appearance. Lift it, put some truck size wheels and tires and suspension. Remove the hatch and put a wood grain floor in the bed. Make it a modern performance 50's era pickup truck.
I realize that the assignment is only meant for colour choices but I’ve always thought the SSR would suit another body style. It would involve a quite a bit of coachbuilding however, getting rid of the complicated roof mechanism and silly cover and having a brave body shop turn it into a van (panel wagon/delivery/etc) THEN slam it on some smooth steel wheels with hubcaps, paint it an old school two tone with some pinstriping and get a sign writer to put “The Smallest Cog” on the side.
Ahhh, boys, the HHR and this have nothing in common, for starters, the HHR is smaller and front wheel drive, where this is based on a pickup, but iirc has Corvette suspension.
Some of the others have said the same things that I thought. First give it the much needed stacked blower coming through the bonnet, the dual wheels in the back, and the mad road rocket paintjob with the desperately needed flame decals. For the rear lid, and truck bed, install a mini wrecking ball setup.
Ive got it! You should make it a drift monster! You have the big engine,the low stance,wide body. Room up front for all the modifications required for the steering geometry. You see Miata convertables,S200's. Imagine seeing the rollcage when the tops down(or gone)behind each seat. Proper seats w/5 point harnesses. You see where im going? I think it would be an absolute drifting beast! I can do a couple sketches if you would like? Also im still waiting for my plane ticket and becoming a new Drivetribe employee. Lifetime of automotive experience and knowledge. And of course be the company American dude lol. I love that you guys keep your faves. Ive watched you 3 forever lol. Let me know!
You could do a bit of both, black with woodie sides. BTW, the tonneau can be bolted off. I know a few owners that have done it. Takes an hour the first time you do it but afterwards it's off in 15 mins.
I honesty love these things so much. It makes absolutely no sense and not a single person asked for it. But in a world where automakers build cars purely to be bought and not just because they want to, that makes it loveable. It shouldn't exist, but it does. And I'm happy to see someone else who appreciates that.
Honestly, I dig the retro, happy, pastel ‘50’s idea. Beyond like two tone paint and chrome hubcaps, you could find a way to ditch the bed topper, make a convertible top hideaway that looks like a tool chest and do the old school wood slat, open truck bed. But if you go that far, I’d probably rock plaid cloth seats or something…OR, just do an EV swap with a GM e-crate motor and a big ol battery in the bed for a crazy electric sleeper
I always envisioned this thing having a rumble seat inside of the bed. It has the look of the late 30’s American cars that had the rumble seat folded into the back. It’d be cool to see one in an SSR.
I’ve always loved these! It’s pure nostalgia from when I drove it around all the time on Midtown Madness 3 when I was a kid simply cos it was so unique. Always in Yellow, electric blue or purple.
I would put a 50s front end on it and put a flare side paint job on it. I like everything on that truck except for the front. that being the lights grill bumper. I’ve always liked them too. Can’t wait to see what you do.
I enjoy the simplicity of its weird design and looks. I’d find paint jobbing it a shame. I would modernize/restore it, make it useful every day. Get rid if the annoying back door, modernize the cockpit. Make it “as it should’ve been made” and “if it was made today” at the same time.
Obviously you must fix the issue with the fan first. Then I would suggest to get rid of the lid for the truck bed. That already makes the car more Ute like. Then I would replace the electrical convertible/folding roof with an anti-rollbar, finished either in chrome, or in a contrast color to the final paint job. It should be possible to do it in such a way that it is possible to put on a canvas roof of sort, if needed. For the paint job I would probably go for a two tone color scheme like in 1950s, like baby blue and white, or mint green and white.
I would remove the bed cover and make automated convertible top into a solid manual removable top. You'd end up needing somewhere to stash that in the meantime, though. Then you could lengthen then bed a tiny bit
If I remember correctly, that's not actually a steel bed. But, rather, something more like a heavy bed liner. It was never meant to be used as an actual truck. It was more of a way to have a robust V8 in a daily driver that could put out power without too much emissions restrictions. If you wanted an actual truck with a toasty engine and street ready suspension, you got a Silverado SS. That was an offering that was supposed to be like the C1500 454 SS from the '90s...except it didn't come with the big block 454, flashy decals, and, for whatever reason, only came in a heavy extended cab version. Of course, now, if you want a hot Chevy truck, you just order one with the 6.2 l that puts out 420 horses. There isn't a sport suspension package. But, if you get one with 20" wheels and street tires, the stock suspension is way more sporty than anything before like 2012. I've got a '18 Z71 with Duratracs, and it handles better than my '11 Impala while riding as smooth as smooth as my '72 Impala. And, the 5.3 l has a hundred more hp than the 5.7l Vortec I traded in, while getting as much as 26 mpg on the highway. Which, is better than I've gotten on that '11 Impala with the 3.4 l V6.
I saw one of these in Ireland not long after watching the GT show you drove it on, it was red with all the chrome and silver parts turned either jet black or black chrome and it actually looked pretty decent. Also I would mod that opening for the rear so that its actually useful!
I have two thoughts for the SSR. 1 do a 4x4 conversion running around 33-inch tires on steel wheels, and the two-tone paint job of black fenders and a more muted yellow color. 2 is more of a radical change. Remove the hard top and bed cover. Make it a pass through and construct a Carson Top that extends all the way to the tailgate (think of The Monkeemobile).
I dig these. There’s one I saw in San Diego that was given the surfer tribute and the board racks gave enough clearance for the top to go down. It was like a baby blue with painted wood that ran the length on both sides.
I'd put black steelies + dog dish hubcaps and some big fat billboard tires. Lower the suspension a bit so that the stance would be just perfect. I'd lower the front end a little more than the read end to give that attitude. Color wise I'd go with Albert Blue (Porsche color). That weird thing across the headlights I'd finish it in glossy black and the lower yellow grills in satin black. I'd play around with glossy and satin black in all silver/chrome parts.
I did the road trip no one has ever thought about on a family holiday in 1994 😂. In a VW 'brick' campervan - we didn't convert it into a boat though. Regs the truck - black and lowered, but not murdered out - metal flake black with larger darkened chrome wheels plus a bright pink 1990's style graphic down the side
I think you can pick the best bits of all your favourite cars you've ever owned and put it up on this like a canvas. For example, give it those huge Ford Raptor tyres, get rid of the hard top roof entirely and give the wind shield an E-Type like shape, and for the roof replace it with thick cloth. It already has a V8, so you could make it shouty like a Mustang (after mending it, obviously) and maybe 911 like headlights along with the Jaguar XK120 leather hood strap. Basically a composite of all the cars you love in a car that the world didn't think it needed. That does sound quite poetic, doesn't it?
Chevrolet offers a 632 cubic inch LSX crate engine, that you can basically just drop right into place with the correct adapter plate or better yet, new transmission as well. After which I fully support your idea of making it look like the stepside trucks of the '50s, so it'll both look subtle and unassuming with hiding a monstrous 10.3L N/A 1000Hp V8. 💯❤🤔😁
Can you make it look as close to an old classic 1950's ute/truck as possible?! Combine it with a hot rod feel like feel, too;-) It will look awesome, as it already has the flared wheel guards;) Like a car from Grease (the movie:)
Since the basic platform it's built on was also used for some GM 4WD cars, my suggestion is to lift it at least 4 inches, put huge tires on it and swap in a front axle and transfer case from one of its 4WD brothers. Oh, and paint it camo with some orange pinstripes to accent the flares... 😅
Replace the automatic roof with a removable hard-top or t-tops--something manual that doesn't take space in the bed and take off the bed lid so it's useful. Lift it, knobby tires, skid plate. The mopey grill is charming, can't change that, but a brush guard would look hysterically awesome. Classic chevy step side paint job. Chef's kiss.
I would suggest making it into the smallest cogs personal work truck. Make it look like a classic work truck you would see at a gas station / repair shop from the 50s. That’s just my taught 👍
Love the idea of keeping the styling clean & old skool, albeit with a massive supercharger setup and all necessary underpinnings to make it demon fast down the 1/4 mile....
put an off-road kit on it (bigger wheels, better shocks, lift it up for off-road clerance) make it into an ideal off-roader, then you can say " i got a weary sporty convertable off-roader" or make it hot rod'ish / rat rod'ish, side pipes (nice and loud) make the head-lamps a bit more clear (i dont know how to make more that style)
3 suggestions: Ratrod - Rust paint/patina, old style seats, old timey paint job, huge side exit exhausts, etc Off roader - raise the suspension, meaty off road wheels, winch, bull bars, maybe black and chrome? Time attack/big aero - enormous wing, huge splitters, dive planes, juet a full on ridiculous aero package. You could probably squeeze out some decent power from that v8 to justify it too
This is exactly the kind of platform to play with. I love the idea of retro. Slap Hammond Farms or even a Cog logo on the door, scrap the bed lid for wood sides and 50's chevy moon rims. Bright red as well. 👨🌾
Get rid of those side mirrors for starters, air ride coilovers (bag it), wooden tray (get rid of hard cover), round out fenders for more classic 50s look (one piece the head lights if possible) and a two tone paint job... Oh and new Steering wheel to go with the supercharger haha!
I was a GM Technical trainer when this vechicle was released. It was built on GM's 360 platform. The more rare one was the GMC Envoy XUV , which was a SUV with rollup rear roof. It even even had a large Yellow button on the rear area so that if you had a dog, it could get out by hitting the botton. Only 2000 were made. Also the whole rear portion of the suv was water proofed for easy cleaning.
My cousin used to be mad for scale model planes, and he once did a Bell P-39 Airacobra called "Pinball - Do not tilt!"; it was painted yellow with a black square in front of the windscreen (bonnet) and nose art with the name. I believe it was a training aircraft, but from the side, the yellow SSR is a dead ringer. The is a pretty clear black and white photo of it somewhere in the internet...
A nice 2 tone paint job (of the 50s and 60s era), that emphasizes the flare arches, maybe some steel rims (pay homage to the heartland) and an interior that's tasteful but also ties the vehicles playful side
Painted in 1950 style. A blue or green body, but front and rear fenders in black. Steel wheels with dog dish hub caps. Wooden bed in the truck box and give it a split 2 piece windshield like the 1950 Chev truck it was designed to pay tribute to.
Two options from me, 1) 50s California surfer boy two tone paint style with a supercharger that sticks out from the bonnet and a manual gearbox, or 2) hotrod look with a supercharger that sticks out the bonnet and a manual gearbox.
i remember in the early top gear days when they were throwing cars in bin that they want to come to the uk the mustang was one and this and i remember Richard said he would love one just not purple and he got one very cool
Having it look like an old shop truck would look cool. A wrap that gives it an old rusty patina look with your shop name on the side of the doors. Plus lower it and some different wheels would look great too.
I do like the thought of kitting it out and making it mean looking as already mentioned, or i think making it more retro looking and giving it an old vintage/patina look
The Dodge M4S denotes "Midengine, 4 cylinder, Sport“. From its conception, the car was intended to be built as a fully engineered running prototype rather than as a display piece. Because it was intended to be used as a pace car PPG Indycar Series , it was designed to reach a top speed of 200 mph (322 km/h). 1981 4 were built one that's still for sale was in the movie The Wraith
LT3, 3.83 diff, Stage 2 Roots Supercharger, Lift Kit or Hydraulics, Chrome Everything, Candy Metalflake paint with Pinstripes.. with a 90's Spliffy sticker on the rear window centre. Gotta make it like a low rider or a lifted truck.
Bonjour Hammond, le coffre de ce Chevrolet ne sert à rien, pourquoi ne pas y mettre un réacteur d'avion ? Cela aidera ce V8 😊 Merci pour toute la bonne humeur que vous nous apportez, Sébastien.
I’d paint it pink like your Minsk in Vietnam. It too has a hard hat on like you did, it broke down near the end like the Minsk did. Honestly hot pink and shiny that truck would be quite the statement.
Turn it into a working weekend warrior ute with working 4WD, big AT tyres, locking diffs, dual battery setup, build a canopy on the tray and put some shelves and a fridge in it.
Takes me back, on holiday in the states many years ago with my parents around the age of 8. This car was so cool! I managed to persuade my gullible mother that I couldn’t live without a die cast model I’d seen in a shop close to our accommodation. I got it! Played with for he duration of the break. Never played with again. Still in a dusty box in pristine condition to this day
I love these. They're so funky. And I'm usually very much "keep the already interesting cars/trucks stock" usually...but these were MEANT to call that retro(at the time) classic look of old early trucks. They only ever did blacks, silvers and dark blues if I recall. Which is "meh". Do it like a late 50s car/stepside : Candy red bottom, white top at.the belt line Turquoise bottom and white Yellow and white? Be fun but not insane. Get the chrome accent kit for pieces that need some shine. I've thought about doing one up for a few years but I'm currently hunting a mid life crisis car.
Retro-mod it. Find a way to separate the fenders from the body. Think Plymouth Prowler. Maybe even Paint them a separate color. Give it standalone headlights like a custom Peterbuilt. Treat the rear tail lights and fenders the same. Visually slim the main body down while keeping the fenders in their current places with all the mechanical bits generally left alone. Leaves the roof and bed stock and functional. Something I’ve never seen done before.
Buying one of the most ridiculous vehicles Chevrolet ever made is just exactly the kind of thing that Hammond would do. Kudos to you for being you, Hammond!
when people have too much money.....
I also can’t help but wonder what the Chevrolet Brothers would think of the SSR…
I think he invented hoovie.
This truck made in the early 2000s when retro styling was huge. This resembles the 52-55 Chevy pickup.
White front and rear fenders and a white roof - chrome slightly larger wheels ?
I think retro-modding is the best way to do it. You could keep the paint, but I think it would look better in a classic 50's color scheme. Get the full retro covers like other people have suggested so they have that classic look with white wall tires. Then get a chrome/stainless grill to replace the plastic/yellow grill job and you get the Chevrolet badge itself replaced in stainless chrome as well with the old red lettering.
Would be a really fun retro throwback, while keeping the car basically as is. While there you could replace the engine or any other body suspension work to make the ride better as you did the body work/painting.
maybe in a two tone 50's paint job, with pinstripes.
Paint it green.. with chrome grill..
yes please @drivetribe
YEH! white wall tyres, Black Paint job And Hot rod Flames. Oh Man IVE Got goose bumps.
It's a car that looks like a toy, so you should make it into a toy. Metal flake and pinstripes and supercharge that V8 with a big old air ram sticking out of the bonnet. A driveable Hot Wheels.
My vote!
One of the few reasonable ideas I've seen so far.
✌️😎
Yes! This is the best idea 😎
I'm still loving Hot Wheels and collecting them even if i turned 30 this year 😂
It probably could use some flames painted on the doors to go along with the rest.
This is the only way!
I personally think turning it into a panel van could be quite fun. I'm not sure you'd be able to keep the retractable hard top, at least not easily. But if you cant keep it you'd get rid of both the back lid mechanism and the retractable top mechanism, which would be quite the weight loss, and you'll have much more room. And on top of that you keep the spirit of a sports utility car with a neo-retro look!
They actually made one
they made plenty @@NYCS19339
You just described the HHR.
Nobody seems to have said this, but I love these cars because they’re basically life sized Hot Wheels. It’s absolutely the kind of thing you can imagine Mattel coming up with which is awesome.
There we are! Make it Barbie-themed! Full pink with girly accessories. "Barbify" it!
@@Nedw wth
W the red wheel walls
I like the idea that some have mentioned of doing it up retro style. Make it look more like a classic Chevy truck. How about a kind of retro mod? The outside looking like the old school with the inside(and the engine) feeling more futuristic? A combination of the old and the new that it was meant to be.
I think this would look great in a 50s two-tone color-scheme, like white and light blue or something similar - playful yet classy!
This! I'd like to see something like white and teal or turquoise.
Some scale models/rc cars did that
Wanted to comment this
Would look nice with blue and gray painting
Yes!
I've always loved these!!! Just like the Prowler en PT-Cruiser, it was an attempt to put a modern swing to a retro concept.
I'd probably (also) go retro style.
Lose the annoying decklid, wood-trim on the floor and the edges of the bed, two-tone paint-job, aluminium grille (instead of plastic) and side-steps and maybe white wall tires around steel rims, with polished center hubcaps...
But it's your car, I'd love it just as much, if you'd get it restored to as new, inclding that gorgeous yellow. and those beautiful wheels..
I love a PT
I LOVE the old flare-side paintjob idea. I think it deserves to be customized and made even more unique, but I don't think making it look "mean" is what the car is about. A vintage two-tone flare-side scheme and whitewall tires would be ultra cool.
Little known fact , Hammond was actually born to a humble family in Ohio . He was then baby knapped and taken across the pond where he would spend the rest of his life seeking inner peace through buying autos that only someone from Ohio could get excited about. (it's ok for me to say that as I too came from Ohio).
Instead of “little known fact” you should preface the whole paragraph with ’’some say” instead.
Come on now things aren’t all that bad in Ohio I’m driving there tomorrow to go on the best roller coaster in the world!
Criminally underrated comment lol!
Also from Ohio 😂
Americans taking credit for everything again 😂
I think you should turn it into a fun roadster because if you think about it, that is what it is. it's not a big burly work truck. it's just a fun roadster with a pretty big trunk (or boot as all of you across the pond like to call it).
also I definitely like the yellow paint job so whatever you do, make sure you keep it yellow.
Yellow with black trim and wheels would be pretty cool with a stroker kit
You know what? I also really love these it’s so beyond useless as a truck, that it moves beyond an automobile or vehicle to a work of art. The style, admittedly is an acquired taste but it’s one I’ve definitely acquired myself. Love it!
I’m with you Richard! I’m a big fan of the SS-R because it’s so completely different to anything normal or practical. As it’s “design” is supposed to hark back to the 3100 pickups of the 50’s how I think that accentuating the flareside is something worth doing. You could go with a pastel colour like the 50’s trucks or go older with two tone black and root beer brown like older trucks. Go old school with the wheels too
I saw one of these parked at a boat race once. The owner converted the front to look more like a Holden Ute and added a few things to make it into a track truck. I remember it being slightly lower and it looked very nice. I was stunned that it looked so clean.
I genuinely quite like the retro flare side idea
Don't know why, but I want to see it a classic green, with wood effect vinyl down the sides, like an old woody station wagon
that with some chrome runners and a board rack
agree!
Maybe with some white sidewall tyres?
All this would make a great combination, and maybe with bigger tyres or smaller wheels
I have to agree there's just something about a Chevy SSR that's unique and enjoyable while driving it. I've owned four Chevy SSRs over the last 20 years (one at a time). Getting the GM gremlins fixed with the SSR are probably the first things to address. There are a large number of aftermarket parts and upgrades for the SSR. I have a large number of videos on my channel showing the installation of many of those fixes and upgrades. I do like the two tone SSRs from the 2006 model year. That would be a nice cosmetic change for your SSR. Enjoy your unique ride!
It has an art-deco inspired kind of retro styling. based upon that, silver wheels, paint it a pastel green maybe something similar to Keswick green and lift it with some nice knobbies like general grabbers. Then put a wood veneer on top of the bed cover to finish it and it will look tops.
A Lima bean with mudders?
I'll allow it✌️😎
I think like a 70s style false rust and faded smallest cog logos on the doors would look kind of cool sort of like tow mater from cars.
Save some of that wood veneer and slap it on the side for a parody of the old woody.
I also like the idea of making it the smallest cog work/parts truck. A real hand painted logo on the door
It was designed to be a retro throwback to hot rodding and unsurprisingly these look best when you lean into it. I would keep it yellow, give it some black scallops and some different rims.
First time I’ve come across this channel HOW haven’t I seen this before?! Just finished a Top Gear & Grand Tour complete rewatch and felt empty with nothing to go on to. So glad I have all this content from the best boys & car content. ⚙️🏎🏁🔧
Turning it into an oversized hotrod and leaning into it’s retro styling would be fun. Possibly a candy fleck paint job to really give it that hotrod look.
Love these and Prowlers, they're a bit odd, but fun. Maybe light metallic silver paint would work, so that the trim blends better or you could paint it to look like a work truck from the 60's with your own branding on the sides like "Hammond's Speed Shop".
Somebody down the road from my house has a Prowler. I've always wanted to stop by and ask about it. Not a car you see everywhere.
What about the HHR that came around the same time? Around that time, both Ford and Chevy came out with retro style cars, probably on the heels of the Chrysler PT Cruisers. Ford didn't go full in, though, and just came out with a retro styled Thunderbird.
@@KunoMochiI'd say the most successful of the 2000s retro cars is probably the 2005 Mustang.
I like the idea of bringing the SSR back to its roots. Repaint it in black (keeping it yellow would work as well), change the rims so that they resemble the retro rims from the original Chevy pickup (the ones with the chrome "plate" in the middle), and remove the lid in the back, or at least make it more practical. Also, it would be interesting to see the SSR with Whitewall tires
I say play to the heritage looks and customize it that way
Flames painted down the side so it looks like something Hotwheels would have done in the 70s!
Satin black with some old school red and grey pin striping
This sounds awesome. I would also continue the retro theme by fitting a proper wooden bed floor, maybe some small wood railings on each side (after removing the lid). Chrome the long horizontal grille bars in the front to make them look more retro. And a small sun protector above the windshield, like one of those baseball-cap looking things.
You and I are on the same wavelength. I posted my ideas above. I can see those silver and yellow bars on the grill going to chrome.
As someone who loves 2000's tuner styling and games such as the nfs underground series, it would be pretty cool to see something like that with this. Not saying you need spinners and split hoods etc (imo that may even be overkill lol) but an interesting paint job, interior mods, maybe a little bigger rims, maybe even a sound system etc. However, the flair side truck look you mentioned would be very interesting to see and I think this look can nicely applied here, but at the end if the day you should go for what makes you happy.
This is my favorite vehicle any of you three have ever brought on one of the trips.
Two tone - maybe a grey and red, all trim black, new silver wheels, get it sitting and sounding right. Gives it a bit of that American V8 meanness and a custom look while not being a basic blacked out look and taking away from the whimsy of it.
the idea of a fun or a retro paint styled retro paintjob would make it standout from the typical like said Mean and Black look
I think going wild with it in the way of making it look like an old truck would be pretty nifty. Possibly paint the hard top bed cover to look like the wood slats of the older generations and paint it to look like it’s a barn find patina.
The SSR is going to be collectable. Built in small volumes, was never meant to be a mass market vehicle in the first place. I would supercharge it, do Rims/Tires/Suspension/Exhaust, and the outside, I would restore to its original glory. Sometimes keeping it simple, is the right way to go. Glad you saved it👍
Agreed
And it seriously needs a wash too
Not so sure about the "collectable", these are certainly not blowing up the market....
Hey, folks, if you loved your SSR, great. Enjoy it. But please don't forget that there are two factors:
Scarcity, and Desireabity. Without both, you just end up with a charming old oddball, and a retirement plan destroyed.
not sure about yellow and black is too obvious. If Hammond truly loves it then original should be the goal.
@@operator6471 just depends on what your gonna after. Yellow is a low volume color adding to it's exclusivity. I would be more interested in keeping it as original as possible and hold onto it as a collectors piece.
@@HughBarton-yc9uusure they will be collectable. Did you ever think a VW beetle would ever be "collectable"🙄
I think you should turn it into the ultimate comedy off-roader
It's rwd not 4x4 lol
Hence the comedy. @@ErikKoenig-fv3nr
It's already a clown car mate 😁
That would be a sight
Make it Baja ready. I love it.
I realise this may sound gaudy and loud but I firmly believe the SSR would suit a purple/blue metallic flake paintjob with subtle ghost flames and silver pinstriping, paying homage to the hot rod/lowrider culture, something similar to what you'd typically see on Hot Wheels.
I have ALWAYS loved and wanted one of these. Yes, they are impractical, but just as you said, its a fun concept. The intent was a retro/throwback when Dodge was doing that, (i.e., the PT Cruiser). So if I had an SSR and the budget, I think it would be a lot of fun to take it back to the retro appearance. Lift it, put some truck size wheels and tires and suspension. Remove the hatch and put a wood grain floor in the bed. Make it a modern performance 50's era pickup truck.
I think you should call it "Twist" since it pairs with Oliver so well
Hammond, your love of goofy American vehicles is what I love about you.
I've got a love for quirky British cars. Maybe Hammond and I were switched at birth, cuz I like tea, beef Wellington, and rugby 🙃
Yankee Hammond is back!!!!
@@Jeff.78 Steak & Kidney pud for me. 🤤🥰 Just picked up a series 1 XJ6.
I like some US and UK cars, mostly Land Rover, Vauxhall, Caddilac and Lincoln
I realize that the assignment is only meant for colour choices but I’ve always thought the SSR would suit another body style. It would involve a quite a bit of coachbuilding however, getting rid of the complicated roof mechanism and silly cover and having a brave body shop turn it into a van (panel wagon/delivery/etc) THEN slam it on some smooth steel wheels with hubcaps, paint it an old school two tone with some pinstriping and get a sign writer to put “The Smallest Cog” on the side.
They did something similar to this direct from the manufacturer with the Chevrolet HHR Panel Van.. Worth a look!
Awesome idea
I like this idea but as someone else has already said chevy made the van (HHR) I reckon do your idea but keep it as a ute
chevy made the hhr sports wagon. if you want a ssr wagon just buy a hhr.
Ahhh, boys, the HHR and this have nothing in common, for starters, the HHR is smaller and front wheel drive, where this is based on a pickup, but iirc has Corvette suspension.
Some of the others have said the same things that I thought.
First give it the much needed stacked blower coming through the bonnet, the dual wheels in the back, and the mad road rocket paintjob with the desperately needed flame decals.
For the rear lid, and truck bed, install a mini wrecking ball setup.
So are rat rods even legal in the UK? I mean some of the monstrosities we see here...😲
Ive got it! You should make it a drift monster! You have the big engine,the low stance,wide body. Room up front for all the modifications required for the steering geometry. You see Miata convertables,S200's. Imagine seeing the rollcage when the tops down(or gone)behind each seat. Proper seats w/5 point harnesses. You see where im going? I think it would be an absolute drifting beast! I can do a couple sketches if you would like? Also im still waiting for my plane ticket and becoming a new Drivetribe employee. Lifetime of automotive experience and knowledge. And of course be the company American dude lol. I love that you guys keep your faves. Ive watched you 3 forever lol. Let me know!
You could do a bit of both, black with woodie sides. BTW, the tonneau can be bolted off. I know a few owners that have done it. Takes an hour the first time you do it but afterwards it's off in 15 mins.
I honesty love these things so much. It makes absolutely no sense and not a single person asked for it. But in a world where automakers build cars purely to be bought and not just because they want to, that makes it loveable. It shouldn't exist, but it does. And I'm happy to see someone else who appreciates that.
Honestly, I dig the retro, happy, pastel ‘50’s idea. Beyond like two tone paint and chrome hubcaps, you could find a way to ditch the bed topper, make a convertible top hideaway that looks like a tool chest and do the old school wood slat, open truck bed. But if you go that far, I’d probably rock plaid cloth seats or something…OR, just do an EV swap with a GM e-crate motor and a big ol battery in the bed for a crazy electric sleeper
I really like the plaid upholstery idea -- maybe just plaid seat inserts. Wood slats in the bed is cool, too, and wouldn't cost much.
I always envisioned this thing having a rumble seat inside of the bed. It has the look of the late 30’s American cars that had the rumble seat folded into the back. It’d be cool to see one in an SSR.
I’ve always loved these! It’s pure nostalgia from when I drove it around all the time on Midtown Madness 3 when I was a kid simply cos it was so unique. Always in Yellow, electric blue or purple.
I think it'd look great as a sort of silly bright coloured retro sport pickup, and definitely emphasizing the flares
I think it looked much better when Mike showed it on his video.
I would put a 50s front end on it and put a flare side paint job on it. I like everything on that truck except for the front. that being the lights grill bumper. I’ve always liked them too. Can’t wait to see what you do.
I enjoy the simplicity of its weird design and looks. I’d find paint jobbing it a shame.
I would modernize/restore it, make it useful every day. Get rid if the annoying back door, modernize the cockpit. Make it “as it should’ve been made” and “if it was made today” at the same time.
Obviously you must fix the issue with the fan first.
Then I would suggest to get rid of the lid for the truck bed. That already makes the car more Ute like.
Then I would replace the electrical convertible/folding roof with an anti-rollbar, finished either in chrome, or in a contrast color to the final paint job. It should be possible to do it in such a way that it is possible to put on a canvas roof of sort, if needed.
For the paint job I would probably go for a two tone color scheme like in 1950s, like baby blue and white, or mint green and white.
I would remove the bed cover and make automated convertible top into a solid manual removable top. You'd end up needing somewhere to stash that in the meantime, though. Then you could lengthen then bed a tiny bit
Top would probably be heavy and bulky though
If I remember correctly, that's not actually a steel bed. But, rather, something more like a heavy bed liner. It was never meant to be used as an actual truck. It was more of a way to have a robust V8 in a daily driver that could put out power without too much emissions restrictions.
If you wanted an actual truck with a toasty engine and street ready suspension, you got a Silverado SS. That was an offering that was supposed to be like the C1500 454 SS from the '90s...except it didn't come with the big block 454, flashy decals, and, for whatever reason, only came in a heavy extended cab version.
Of course, now, if you want a hot Chevy truck, you just order one with the 6.2 l that puts out 420 horses. There isn't a sport suspension package. But, if you get one with 20" wheels and street tires, the stock suspension is way more sporty than anything before like 2012. I've got a '18 Z71 with Duratracs, and it handles better than my '11 Impala while riding as smooth as smooth as my '72 Impala. And, the 5.3 l has a hundred more hp than the 5.7l Vortec I traded in, while getting as much as 26 mpg on the highway. Which, is better than I've gotten on that '11 Impala with the 3.4 l V6.
Or just get a Gen 2 Lightning. Just a pulley swap and tune away from even more power..
I don't think it would be wise to dump that much money into it. A cosmetic customization would make more $ense.
I saw one of these in Ireland not long after watching the GT show you drove it on, it was red with all the chrome and silver parts turned either jet black or black chrome and it actually looked pretty decent. Also I would mod that opening for the rear so that its actually useful!
Make it an off-roader - v8, off road, hardtop, sports, pickup truck. Would be one of a kind.
I have two thoughts for the SSR. 1 do a 4x4 conversion running around 33-inch tires on steel wheels, and the two-tone paint job of black fenders and a more muted yellow color. 2 is more of a radical change. Remove the hard top and bed cover. Make it a pass through and construct a Carson Top that extends all the way to the tailgate (think of The Monkeemobile).
No.1
I dig these. There’s one I saw in San Diego that was given the surfer tribute and the board racks gave enough clearance for the top to go down. It was like a baby blue with painted wood that ran the length on both sides.
Best idea here so far
I'd put black steelies + dog dish hubcaps and some big fat billboard tires. Lower the suspension a bit so that the stance would be just perfect. I'd lower the front end a little more than the read end to give that attitude. Color wise I'd go with Albert Blue (Porsche color). That weird thing across the headlights I'd finish it in glossy black and the lower yellow grills in satin black. I'd play around with glossy and satin black in all silver/chrome parts.
I did the road trip no one has ever thought about on a family holiday in 1994 😂. In a VW 'brick' campervan - we didn't convert it into a boat though.
Regs the truck - black and lowered, but not murdered out - metal flake black with larger darkened chrome wheels plus a bright pink 1990's style graphic down the side
That would make an absolutely awesome rat rod!!! Alternatively, painting it like one of the old trucks would also be very cool!
Disassemble, separate by material type (ie steel, aluminium, plastic), and recycle responsibly.
I think you can pick the best bits of all your favourite cars you've ever owned and put it up on this like a canvas. For example, give it those huge Ford Raptor tyres, get rid of the hard top roof entirely and give the wind shield an E-Type like shape, and for the roof replace it with thick cloth. It already has a V8, so you could make it shouty like a Mustang (after mending it, obviously) and maybe 911 like headlights along with the Jaguar XK120 leather hood strap. Basically a composite of all the cars you love in a car that the world didn't think it needed. That does sound quite poetic, doesn't it?
Chevrolet offers a 632 cubic inch LSX crate engine, that you can basically just drop right into place with the correct adapter plate or better yet, new transmission as well.
After which I fully support your idea of making it look like the stepside trucks of the '50s, so it'll both look subtle and unassuming with hiding a monstrous 10.3L N/A 1000Hp V8.
💯❤🤔😁
I think you should put faux wood down the side. Then supercharge it and full exhaust. Then put some wheels on it. And do the interior.
Can you make it look as close to an old classic 1950's ute/truck as possible?! Combine it with a hot rod feel like feel, too;-) It will look awesome, as it already has the flared wheel guards;)
Like a car from Grease (the movie:)
Since the basic platform it's built on was also used for some GM 4WD cars, my suggestion is to lift it at least 4 inches, put huge tires on it and swap in a front axle and transfer case from one of its 4WD brothers. Oh, and paint it camo with some orange pinstripes to accent the flares... 😅
🤮🤮😉
Replace the automatic roof with a removable hard-top or t-tops--something manual that doesn't take space in the bed and take off the bed lid so it's useful. Lift it, knobby tires, skid plate. The mopey grill is charming, can't change that, but a brush guard would look hysterically awesome. Classic chevy step side paint job. Chef's kiss.
One of the 6 speed manual versions would be awesome to own
I would suggest making it into the smallest cogs personal work truck. Make it look like a classic work truck you would see at a gas station / repair shop from the 50s. That’s just my taught 👍
You’d have a hard time finding a car more hideous than that chevy
Fiat Multipla/Nissan Juke/Pontiac Aztec/Hyundai Santa Cruz/and many more:
Challenge accepted!
@@Jeff.78 do more
got to see this yesterday at a museum, really cool that i can cross seeing a car from the grand tour off my bucket list
I think he likes it because it looks a bit like a VW beetle (pickup). The wheel arches, the lights, the bonnet
How dare you
Hammond, again, demonstratings why he along with May and Clarkson are the best presenters ever. AI has a long way to go.
I'd make an electric Pikachu Ute. It's perfect for it.
Love the idea of keeping the styling clean & old skool, albeit with a massive supercharger setup and all necessary underpinnings to make it demon fast down the 1/4 mile....
put an off-road kit on it (bigger wheels, better shocks, lift it up for off-road clerance) make it into an ideal off-roader, then you can say " i got a weary sporty convertable off-roader" or make it hot rod'ish / rat rod'ish, side pipes (nice and loud) make the head-lamps a bit more clear (i dont know how to make more that style)
3 suggestions:
Ratrod - Rust paint/patina, old style seats, old timey paint job, huge side exit exhausts, etc
Off roader - raise the suspension, meaty off road wheels, winch, bull bars, maybe black and chrome?
Time attack/big aero - enormous wing, huge splitters, dive planes, juet a full on ridiculous aero package. You could probably squeeze out some decent power from that v8 to justify it too
This is exactly the kind of platform to play with. I love the idea of retro. Slap Hammond Farms or even a Cog logo on the door, scrap the bed lid for wood sides and 50's chevy moon rims. Bright red as well. 👨🌾
He said flamboyant and then he said customisation, a collab with yiannimize would be crazy
Pinstripes and have the wheels mirror polished chrome. The fact it exists as a vehicle makes me smile.
Get rid of those side mirrors for starters, air ride coilovers (bag it), wooden tray (get rid of hard cover), round out fenders for more classic 50s look (one piece the head lights if possible) and a two tone paint job... Oh and new Steering wheel to go with the supercharger haha!
I was a GM Technical trainer when this vechicle was released. It was built on GM's 360 platform. The more rare one was the GMC Envoy XUV , which was a SUV with rollup rear roof. It even even had a large Yellow button on the rear area so that if you had a dog, it could get out by hitting the botton. Only 2000 were made. Also the whole rear portion of the suv was water proofed for easy cleaning.
My cousin used to be mad for scale model planes, and he once did a Bell P-39 Airacobra called "Pinball - Do not tilt!"; it was painted yellow with a black square in front of the windscreen (bonnet) and nose art with the name. I believe it was a training aircraft, but from the side, the yellow SSR is a dead ringer. The is a pretty clear black and white photo of it somewhere in the internet...
A nice 2 tone paint job (of the 50s and 60s era), that emphasizes the flare arches, maybe some steel rims (pay homage to the heartland) and an interior that's tasteful but also ties the vehicles playful side
Painted in 1950 style. A blue or green body, but front and rear fenders in black. Steel wheels with dog dish hub caps. Wooden bed in the truck box and give it a split 2 piece windshield like the 1950 Chev truck it was designed to pay tribute to.
Two options from me, 1) 50s California surfer boy two tone paint style with a supercharger that sticks out from the bonnet and a manual gearbox, or 2) hotrod look with a supercharger that sticks out the bonnet and a manual gearbox.
you could do a awesome rat rod look, flames, straight piped side exit exhausts, would be amazing with that v8
Friend of mine has one of these in Ireland in yellow with flames painted by chip foose and slapped a supercharger on it. Its a beast
i remember in the early top gear days when they were throwing cars in bin that they want to come to the uk the mustang was one and this and i remember Richard said he would love one just not purple and he got one very cool
Having it look like an old shop truck would look cool. A wrap that gives it an old rusty patina look with your shop name on the side of the doors. Plus lower it and some different wheels would look great too.
My grandfather had a red one of these and so I will always love this car.
I do like the thought of kitting it out and making it mean looking as already mentioned, or i think making it more retro looking and giving it an old vintage/patina look
Like a super rat rod. Like it!
Turn it into an off-road Paris Dakar monster!
The Dodge M4S denotes "Midengine, 4 cylinder, Sport“. From its conception, the car was intended to be built as a fully engineered running prototype rather than as a display piece. Because it was intended to be used as a pace car PPG Indycar Series , it was designed to reach a top speed of 200 mph (322 km/h). 1981 4 were built one that's still for sale was in the movie The Wraith
Gloss black wheel arces, chrome bars on the bottom grill, Twinn glass panels in the roof (like old T Bird) and a tow bar for a tear drop caravan
LT3, 3.83 diff, Stage 2 Roots Supercharger, Lift Kit or Hydraulics, Chrome Everything, Candy Metalflake paint with Pinstripes.. with a 90's Spliffy sticker on the rear window centre.
Gotta make it like a low rider or a lifted truck.
Bonjour Hammond, le coffre de ce Chevrolet ne sert à rien, pourquoi ne pas y mettre un réacteur d'avion ? Cela aidera ce V8 😊
Merci pour toute la bonne humeur que vous nous apportez, Sébastien.
Give that back end a “woody” look and it’ll be a belter 👍🏻
It's great to see you kept it....I love your shows... I know you're going to make it great..
I’d paint it pink like your Minsk in Vietnam. It too has a hard hat on like you did, it broke down near the end like the Minsk did. Honestly hot pink and shiny that truck would be quite the statement.
Turn it into a working weekend warrior ute with working 4WD, big AT tyres, locking diffs, dual battery setup, build a canopy on the tray and put some shelves and a fridge in it.
Retro flare with a flamboyant and playful edge to it! Hammond is right about giving it a fun new life 😁
I remember when these first came out. It reminded me of the old Studebakers. I would love to see this truck with that 1950s flare.
Takes me back, on holiday in the states many years ago with my parents around the age of 8. This car was so cool! I managed to persuade my gullible mother that I couldn’t live without a die cast model I’d seen in a shop close to our accommodation. I got it! Played with for he duration of the break. Never played with again. Still in a dusty box in pristine condition to this day
I love these. They're so funky. And I'm usually very much "keep the already interesting cars/trucks stock" usually...but these were MEANT to call that retro(at the time) classic look of old early trucks. They only ever did blacks, silvers and dark blues if I recall. Which is "meh". Do it like a late 50s car/stepside :
Candy red bottom, white top at.the belt line
Turquoise bottom and white
Yellow and white?
Be fun but not insane. Get the chrome accent kit for pieces that need some shine.
I've thought about doing one up for a few years but I'm currently hunting a mid life crisis car.
Retro-mod it. Find a way to separate the fenders from the body. Think Plymouth Prowler. Maybe even Paint them a separate color. Give it standalone headlights like a custom Peterbuilt. Treat the rear tail lights and fenders the same. Visually slim the main body down while keeping the fenders in their current places with all the mechanical bits generally left alone. Leaves the roof and bed stock and functional. Something I’ve never seen done before.
I think something playful will suit you. You already have that Hellcat now time to play around with the SSR! Love from Texas ❤️