A parking lot is a parking lot is a parking lot—unless it’s the Summit Racing parking lot. On any given day or time, the lot outside a Summit Racing store can turn into an impromptu mini car show, depending on who’s stopped by the store. On Wednesdays, we’ll share our parking lot find of the week—another benefit of being Powered by Summit Racing Equipment.

It wasn’t supposed to be like this.

The Ford Customline was meant to be Ford’s mid-level passenger car when it was introduced in 1952, but as usual, the hot-rodding community has other ideas. Take, for example, this Gasser-style ’52 Customline we spotted at Summit Racing’s Akron store. Its original, modest V8 or inline-six engine has been scrapped in favor of a 392 HEMI. The straight-axle front-end has been appropriately altered for better weight distribution on the dragstrip.

And the paint scheme and lettering? Well done, Lazy Liz. Well done.

We haven’t seen this much of a 1950’s attitude adjustment since Olivia Newton John sported the Spandex for Danny Zuko (or something like that).

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Author: David Fuller

David Fuller is OnAllCylinders' managing editor. During his 20-year career in the auto industry, he has covered a variety of races, shows, and industry events and has authored articles for multiple magazines. He has also partnered with mainstream and trade publications on a wide range of editorial projects. In 2012, he helped establish OnAllCylinders, where he enjoys covering all facets of hot rodding and racing.