In the 1960s, two brothers from Detroit, Mike and Larry Alexander, took a basic Dodge truck and built this wildly customized vehicle known as The Deora. Famed car designer, Harry Bentley Bradley crafted the design for the brothers. The build became legendary when AMT® models immortalized the creation in a best-selling DIY model kit. The Alexander Brothers debuted the Deora at the 1967 Detroit Autorama where it took the coveted Ridler Award. Dodge, impressed with the custom’s popularity, leased the Deora and used it at auto shows as a promotional vehicle. The Deora’s place in history was cemented in 1968 with the release of Mattel’s® popular Hot Wheels® line that featured a micro-size version of the Deora. Almost 60 years later, the design has been recreated numerous times, and has found its way to the toyboxes of generations of kids and car lovers alike. It is among America’s most famous “show cars.”

NHVR No. 36 HAER No. MI-441

The Deora was repainted to a similar gold color as it was after its construction. Chrysler had the Deora painted metallic lime green during its time on the show circuit.

This vehicle’s interior features custom black vinyl upholstery similar to how it was constructed originally.

This vehicle was originally used as a show car by the Alexander Brothers Custom Shop and exhibited by Chrysler Corporation. It is now owned by the Tom Abrams Collection.

The car features 14-inch chromed steel reverse wheels with 235/60R14 raised white letter tires.

Hydraulic non-power assisted drum brakes.

Chrysler three-speed manual transmission with custom shift linkage