When you see flyers for Tri-Five Classic Chevy cruises, or those specialized car shows every weekend, it’s not a coincidence—it’s a movement. These cars have stood the test of time because they represent more than just sheet metal and chrome. They are tangible pieces of American history, symbols of the post WW2 boom, and reminders of a time when cars had names and solidly reflected the owner’s personalities.
Whether it’s a perfectly restored 1957 Bel Air convertible, a ’55 gasser with a straight axle and velocity stacks, or a patina-clad survivor 210 wagon.
Tri-Five Chevys still turn heads—and still brings enthusiasts together.
Lions Automobilia Foundation and Museum in Rancho Dominguez, California—about a mile and a directly half north of the legendary OG Lions Drag Strip, presented their third annual Tri-Five car show and, even with some wet weather, brought out some of the coolest “drivers” in the area. The host club, California Nomads drove their hot rods in for the Show and Shine, Raffle, Museum Tours and a Lions Club Bratwurst Fest for lunch.
A portion of the event included twelve, high school aged teams engaged in the nationwide Hot Rodders of Tomorrow competition, won by Agoura High Schoolers.
While the Museum may only have a handful of Tri-Five Chevys on display, it more than makes up for it with over 160 incredible examples of American car culture and SoCal motorsports, showcased across six immersive galleries. From original hot rod and racing murals to historic dragsters, funny cars, vintage race boats, drag bikes, off-road, dry lakes, and classic muscle cars, the collection is a vibrant tribute to the golden era of speed and style.
One of the Museum’s most unique features is its unmatched collection of Willys Americars, spanning from 1933 to 1954. This extraordinary assembly amassed by Founder, Restorer, and Collector Rick Lorenzen, whose deep passion for the Willys marque made the Lions Automobilia Foundation home to one of the most comprehensive Willys collections on the west coast. Lorenzen passed away in 2024.
Lorenzen’s devotion to preserving the legacy of these iconic cars adds a personal, authentic touch—making the Museum not just a destination, but a must-see for any true enthusiast.
Popular Hot Rodding’s Project X made it to Tri-5’s at Lions.
Near the Lions Starting Line, an awesome and rare 1942 Willys was built by Cambra Speed Shop for a 2014 SEMA Show debut. A Killer PPG Root Beer Metallic paint job!
Check out the Lions Automobilia Foundation and Museum, open 9AM to 2PM on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
CHECK OUT OUR GALLERY FROM TRI-5 CHEVYS AT LIONS AUTOMOBILA