The Goodguys 2024 PPG Street Machine of the Year – Ed Ganzinotti’s 1968 Charger built by Classic Car Studio

Ed Ganzinotti wasn’t planning to transform his 1968 Charger into a modernized street machine when he bought it 20 years ago out of Bakersfield, California. In fact, he wasn’t even thinking about it when he took the car to Classic Car Studio for a paint job and interior upgrade.

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As you can see, things escalated…and then some. Once he and the crew at Classic Car Studio started talking about modifications, performance options, and custom work, Ed decided to go all-in on a full-tilt street machine – and the plan worked out beyond his dreams as his Charger was named the Goodguys 2024 PPG Street Machine of the Year this past weekend during the 26th Summit Racing Nationals Presented by PPG!

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Mopar fans will be relieved to learn that the Charger is still powered by its original 440c.i. big block, though it now sports a custom Borla 8-stack intake system with a Holley fuel controller. The engine compartment has been entirely redesigned with smooth, contoured fender wells, firewall, and radiator core support. The meticulous drivetrain is mounted to a Roadster Shop Fast Track chassis replete with adjustable coil-overs, a 9-inch rearend, and Baer 6-piston discs to slow the Billet Specialties wheels. You’ll have to take our word on all of the underpinnings as most are now covered by a custom belly pan.

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Once the bodywork commenced, the Classic Car Studio team wanted to work in their own contemporary custom touches while being mindful to the Charger’s iconic styling. The drip rails were smoothed, wheel openings were altered to match the modified wheelbase, and flush-mounted glass was used. Working the long, flat panels to perfection was a challenge, but as you can see from the custom green Glasurit finish, the CCS crew nailed it.

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A glance into the interior reveals a highly modified dash filled with Dakota Digital instruments and gauge pods. The seats were reworked by CCS before being covered in leather from Relicate, complemented by custom door panels. Note use of wood trim on the door panels, console and package tray. Each of these one-off pieces have been carefully cut from Missouri black walnut, providing a classic and stylish element throughout the interior.

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Ed’s 1968 Charger may have taken a major detour from his original rebuild plan, but he couldn’t be happier with where it ended up – as the Goodguys 2024 PPG Street Machine of the Year! Congrats to Ed and the team at Classic Car Studio.

Text by Todd Ryden

Photos by Street Machine Central

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