Farewell to a Florida Favorite: Hooters & Hot Rods Comes to a Close

Today, the Central Florida car community received news we hoped would never come—Hooters & Hot Rods in Sanford has officially come to an end.

This wasn’t just a car meet. It was a tradition. A gathering that brought us together under the Florida sky to celebrate the machines we build, the friends we ride with, and the memories that make this culture more than just a hobby.

Run by DJ Don and the Cruisin Orlando team, Hooters & Hot Rods had a spirit that couldn’t be replicated. Whether it was your first time pulling in or your fiftieth, the lot felt like home. The music, the chrome, the laughter, the stories—every event reminded us why we fell in love with this life on wheels.

For many of us, this was where we debuted a new build, took our favorite photos, or had our best conversations with complete strangers who quickly became part of the extended family. It wasn’t about trophies. It was about time well spent.

To DJ Don and everyone who made this event what it was—thank you. You gave us a gift we didn’t realize we’d miss this much until now.

The cars will still cruise. The community will still gather. But this one... this one will be remembered.

🔥 Chrome & Community: Winter YMCA Car Show Ignites Local Passion

When the Winter Park sun rose over the YMCA lot, it wasn’t just about cars—it was about presence. Rows of polished chrome, rare imports, and custom builds came together in a neighborhood lot that felt more like a hometown festival than a show. This wasn’t big-stage pretension—this was the real deal.

This year’s mix hit every note: vintage, custom, and clean. A sharp blue BMW posted up like it owned the asphalt. A white Moke brought the island vibe, drawing crowds with its open-air charisma. Multiple generations of Porsche showed off sleek lines and performance heritage, with one dropping jaws the moment it crept through the gate.

There was also something special about the attention to detail—clean interiors, polished lips, and a lineup that spoke to every kind of enthusiast.

The beauty of this show? You didn’t need a VIP pass to talk shop. Conversations spilled across the lot—about builds, track days, paint codes, and life. Kids peeked under hoods. Builders exchanged Instagram handles. A few veterans connected over shared service and shared passion for clean machines.

It was exactly what the culture needs—real connections over real builds.

Some of the best moments weren’t parked—they were in motion. Like the blue Porsche gliding in at golden hour or the beach-ready Moke pulling in with the kind of swagger only an import that’s stood the test of time can deliver.

This wasn’t just a photo-op—it was a vibe.

🔧 Final Gear: Why It Matters

Shows like this keep the scene alive—not by going bigger, but by staying real. The Winter YMCA Car Show delivered exactly what car culture needs right now: connection, passion, and a lineup full of stories worth hearing.

To the builders, photographers, families, and organizers—thank you. Steel & Style will be back next year.

Which Ride Rules the Scene? Let’s Settle This.

This week, we’re not spotlighting one ride—we’re putting the whole scene under the spotlight.

From showstopping C10s to wild 90s lowriders, from classic muscle to bagged beasts… everybody has a favorite. But here’s the real question:

If you had to crown ONE category as king, what’s taking the title?

🏁 Classic Muscle?

🔧 90s Lowriders

🚗 Imports & Tuners

🛻 Lifted Trucks

🛠️ Bagged Builds

🔩 Patina Projects

🧊 Iconic C10s

We know it’s not just about looks—it’s the culture, the history, the builds that break necks and rules. But we want to hear it from the real ones in the scene:

Which style speaks to your soul?

Jump on our Facebook Page and tell us why. Better yet—drop a pic of your favorite build. We’ll highlight the best comments next week right here in the Spotlight.

This isn’t just a post. It’s a callout.
Let’s settle this. 💥

Chrome, Culture & Count’s Kustoms – The Caring Hearts Car Show Was Fire!

Horny Mike giving out awards at the Caring Hearts of SC Car, Truck, Jeep, and Bike Show 2025 in Ridgeland, SC May 3, 2025

If you weren’t at the Caring Hearts of South Carolina Car Show this weekend, you missed out—big time. From old-school muscle to clean custom builds, the lot was packed with serious heat. The energy? Straight-up electric.

Stunning Autos on display from all years, makes, and models!

Lifted Square body looking very sharp!

Horny Mike from Count’s Kustoms rolled in as our special guest and brought the Vegas vibe with him. The man didn’t just show up—he connected, took time with the fans, and reminded everyone why he’s a staple in the custom scene. From his signature horned helmet to his down-to-earth attitude, he brought a jolt of star power that matched the horsepower on display.

Horny Mike observing this Cobra for his personal best of show trophpy

Immaculate classic Chevy truck.

Standouts? Too many to count—but that blue lowrider Toyota had crowds circling all day. Laid low, clean chrome, flawless paint... It was a street dream brought to life. And of course, the muscle car lineup hit hard—Camaro, Charger, Chevelle, all flexing under the Carolina sun like they owned the blacktop.

Blue Toyota slammed to the ground in style.

Everywhere you turned, there was something to take in—custom paint that looked wet under the sun, polished engine bays detailed down to the valve covers, and families walking through with their jaws on the pavement. You could feel it in the air: this wasn’t just a car show—it was a celebration of craft, culture, and community.

Can you see the ghost pattern in the paint?

Vendors lined the lot offering everything from hand-dipped corn dogs to car care products you can’t find at the chain stores. Local shops and builders showed out, repping South Carolina hard with pride in every weld, polish, and burnout story. And when the music hit just right, it was like the cars and the crowd moved as one.

Spectators and participants talking amongst each other.

The crowd was mixed—veterans, kids with toy Camaros, and longtime builders sharing stories of their first rides. It wasn’t just about what you drove, it was about what you brought to the pavement. And Caring Hearts made sure the heart stayed front and center, reminding us why this event matters beyond the chrome.

Custom bikes came out to play to!

Drone shot of the Caring Hearts Car Show in Ridgeland, SC

And let’s not forget the showstoppers rolling in late—trucks on air, bikes with wild graphics, and a few surprises that turned the whole show around more than once. This wasn’t just another meet-up. This was the kind of event that leaves a mark.

1934 Custom Chevy Truck on display

If this was just a preview of what 2025 car culture in the South is bringing, then buckle up—because we’re in for one wild ride.

Jeeps in full force showing how clean they can be!

Orlando Cars & Coffee Ignites: Cars, Culture, and Coffee at Dezerland Park

Orlando’s car scene never disappoints, and April’s Cars & Coffee at Dezerland Park proved it once again. From sunrise roll-ins to burnout-worthy exits, this month’s gathering brought the heat—and not just from the Florida sun.

Hosted in the sprawling lot outside Dezerland Park, the April event saw everything from slammed imports and lifted trucks to rare classics and modern exotics. You could walk the rows and see an 80s box Chevy parked next to a brand-new GT-R, then turn the corner and catch a full carbon fiber Mustang lined up beside a custom airbrushed bike.

As always, the crowd showed love. Veterans of the scene mixed with first-timers, camera gear was everywhere, and conversations flowed as easily as the coffee. For car builders, photographers, and fans alike, Orlando Cars & Coffee continues to be the spot where culture, craftsmanship, and community come together.

Dezerland’s backdrop gave this one extra flair—between the indoor auto museum, go-kart track, and food options, there’s always something more to check out once you’ve had your fill of chrome and camber.

April’s event reminded us that this isn’t just about cars—it’s about people who live and breathe the lifestyle. If you missed this one, don’t worry—we’ve got the photos to prove it happened. And if you were there, you might just spot your ride in our gallery.

See you in May.

Show of the South: Horsepower Ranch Easter Car Show

Hidden among the tall oaks and rustic barns of Geneva, Florida, lies one of the region’s best-kept secrets: Horsepower Ranch. Known for hosting weddings, festivals, and automotive throwdowns alike, this unique venue became the perfect backdrop for the Easter Car Show—an event that had everything but Easter eggs.

Let’s be clear—this wasn’t some cutesy springtime affair. It was a full-on flex of muscle, metal, and memory. The smell of octane hung in the air as Florida’s proudest car lovers rolled in with chrome polished, tires shining, and engines ready to be heard.

The Lineup: Classic Muscle Meets Modern Edge

The field was loaded with Detroit’s finest—big blocks, small blocks, high-rise intakes, and enough horsepower to make your chest rattle. Among the standouts:

A menacing Dodge Charger that idled like thunder rolling through the swamp.

A Mustang that looked straight out of Bullitt.

Camaro

The Venue: Where Florida Muscle Feels at Home

Horsepower Ranch delivered the kind of rustic energy that’s hard to fake. With its open barns, live oak trees, and wide Florida skies, it gave the entire event a welcoming, unfiltered vibe. This was a gathering where builders talked shop, families grilled out, and every engine was treated with respect.

The venue brought something a lot of shows miss—soul.

More Than Machines

This wasn’t just about showing off—it was about connection. Whether you came with a $100K build or a primer-grey project still in progress, you were part of the tribe. There were vendors, raffles, food trucks, and plenty of stories passed between sun-faded hats and oil-stained hands.

One visitor summed it up best:

“It’s not just a show. It’s a reminder of why we fell in love with these cars in the first place.”

Little Tikes Car

Coming Soon in Steel & Style

We’ve got the full photo gallery, behind-the-scenes interviews, and a feature spotlight on some of the most jaw-dropping builds of the day. Whether you were there or just wish you were, Steel & Style is bringing you back into the moment.

🚨 I-Drive Throwdown: Orlando’s Custom Underground Took Over Dezerland 🚨

If you weren’t at Dezerland Park for the I-Drive Throwdown, you missed one of the hardest truck shows to hit Central Florida. No distractions. Just straight-up truck culture taking center stage.

From towering lifts to laid-out frames scraping the floor, every build had its own flavor—and every square inch of Dezerland was packed with detail, creativity, and flex.

Lifted to the Sky: Trucks sitting on 24s and 26s, with powder-coated suspension parts and color-matched everything. Every bolt, every bracket—custom. These weren’t pavement princesses. These were full-on show trucks that still looked like they could run the trail.

Laid Out and Low as It Gets: Static builds with aggressive camber, and bagged trucks that aired out so low it looked like they were melting into the concrete. Custom beds, crazy notch work, and smooth-as-glass paint. These trucks didn’t need to move to steal attention.

Truck Crews in Full Force: The loyalty was loud. Matching shirts, squad banners, and full roll-ins with 10+ builds deep. The respect in the room was real—no drama, just love for the game.

You already know we caught the best of the best. From wild builds to those clean sleepers with a twist, the coverage is rolling out soon.

This wasn’t just a show—it was a statement.

Horsepower, Paint, and Precision: The F.A.S.T. Car Show Roars into Charleston

A high-octane experience brought to life by Honda Steve, with wild builds, top-tier clubs, and serious heart.

March 30th lit up North Charleston Coliseum with the return of the F.A.S.T. Car Show & Automotive Tradeshow—and if you didn’t know, F.A.S.T. stands for Fuel. Air. Spark. Tradeshow. Powered by the relentless drive of Honda Steve, this wasn’t just an event—it was a lifestyle unleashed

$400,000 Corvette on display.

From the moment the doors opened, you were hit with custom rides so bold they blurred the line between machine and art. One of the wildest builds on the floor? A $400,000 Corvette that looked like it drove straight out of a dream.

C10 Locals had a few represintatives on deck supporting including SandScrapper.

Representing deep Southern roots, the C10 Locals brought clean, classic Chevy muscle, while Done 2 Profection Car & Truck Club was supporting the show, Original Kings Car Club flexed with polished builds that lived up to the name. Tatted Cat Custom Creations laid down stunning paintwork across a few showstoppers, drawing crowds with every brushstroke of detail

The Original Kings Car Club showed a few of their top rides.

NOPI made a strong return, reminding everyone of their iconic legacy in the car scene. From fully-detailed motorcycles and custom trikes to jacked-up trucks and jaw-dropping lowriders—every lane of the car world showed up strong.

NOPI Nationals is back and in full swing!

Tatted Cat Custom Creations displayed Ronnie Sephrish’s slammed Truck

Beyond the chrome and clear coat, this event raised funds for charity—cause still to be confirmed—but the love and support from the community was undeniable.

🔥 Full gallery and exclusive coverage now at:
👉 steelandstylecarmag.com

Camtech Custom Baggers showed off their amazing work.

West Ashley Cars & Coffee – March 2025 Recap

There’s something special about a crisp morning, the hum of finely tuned engines, and the scent of fresh coffee filling the air. On March 30th, the West Ashley Cars & Coffee event, hosted by Mr. Richie Canaday, brought together an eclectic mix of vehicles and enthusiasts, proving once again that car culture in Charleston is alive and thriving.

From the moment the first car rolled in, it was clear this wasn’t just another gathering—it was a showcase of passion, craftsmanship, and automotive history. A gleaming SS Camaro commanded attention with its powerful stance, while a custom Suburban turned heads with its unique modifications. The rat rod, a true work of art, embodied old-school rebellion, and the hot rod radiated sheer horsepower. These were not just machines; they were stories on wheels, each with an owner ready to share the journey behind their build.

Beyond the chrome and horsepower, the real magic of Cars & Coffee lies in the people. Conversations sparked between strangers over engine specs, restoration projects, and shared memories of past classics. Whether you were a seasoned collector or a casual admirer, there was an undeniable sense of community in the air.

One of the highlights of the event was the sheer variety of cars present. The muscle car lineup featured roaring Mustangs, classic Challengers, and a few modern Hellcats, all drawing nods of approval from onlookers. Truck enthusiasts weren’t left out either, as lifted Fords, vintage Chevy pickups, and even a few heavily modified off-road beasts showed up to represent the world of rugged builds. There were also several imports sprinkled throughout the lot, adding a touch of JDM flair to the mix.

Attendees took their time strolling through the rows, capturing photos, discussing restoration techniques, and sharing the unique histories behind their prized vehicles. Some cars had been meticulously restored to their original factory condition, while others were bold custom projects that pushed the boundaries of design and performance.

As the morning wore on, the air buzzed with the sound of engines revving, coffee cups clinking, and laughter from friends—both old and new. Vendors lined the edges of the lot, offering car-related merchandise, performance parts, and even specialty detailing services for those looking to keep their rides in pristine condition. A local coffee vendor ensured that no one went without a caffeine fix, fueling both conversations and the enthusiasm that kept the energy high throughout the morning.

As the sun rose higher and the coffee cups emptied, the event wrapped up with a lingering feeling of inspiration. West Ashley Cars & Coffee isn’t just an event—it’s an experience, a place where the love of automobiles brings people together month after month. If you missed this one, don’t worry; the next gathering promises to be just as spectacular.

Stay tuned for exclusive photos and deeper dives into the incredible vehicles that made this event unforgettable!

Horsepower Heaven: Inside the 2025 Daytona Turkey Run

Daytona Turkey Run – Spring 2025: A Gearhead’s Paradise

When it comes to legendary car shows, the Daytona Turkey Run stands in a league of its own. Twice a year, Daytona International Speedway transforms from a world-class racing venue into a haven for automotive enthusiasts. Whether you’re into classic muscle, hot rods, custom builds, or rare exotics, the Turkey Run delivers in ways no other show can.

A Brief Look at Turkey Run’s Legacy

Since its inception in 1974, the Daytona Turkey Run has grown into the largest combined car show and swap meet in the United States. It all started with a handful of enthusiasts who wanted to showcase pre-1948 street rods. Fast forward to today, and the event welcomes thousands of vehicles spanning all eras and styles.

But that’s just scratching the surface. We’re diving deep into the full history in the April edition of Steel & Style—from its grassroots origins to the jaw-dropping spectacle it is today.

Miles of Machines: The Full-Throttle Experience

Covering hours and miles each day, we weren’t just walking—we were immersed in an endless sea of chrome, horsepower, and creativity. The rumble of big-block V8s, the scent of burning rubber, the gleam of polished fenders under the Florida sun—this was more than a car show. This was a symphony of raw automotive passion.

Unforgettable Highlights from This Year’s Show

🚗 Black SS Chevelle Diesel Swap – A monster of a build, this classic wasn’t just about looks. The diesel engine with a smoke-blowing stack in the engine bay turned heads all day. The sound of the turbo spooling as it rolled past? Pure automotive music.

🔥 Classic Ford Roadster with Flaming Skulls – If ever a car screamed hot rod attitude, this was it. A sleek vintage Ford with flaming skulls airbrushed across each side, giving it the perfect blend of menace and nostalgia. The owner told us, “I wanted people to feel the heat just looking at it.” Mission accomplished.

🃏 Joker-Themed Dodge Charger – This wasn’t just a custom paint job—it was a work of art. The level of detail in the wrap was insane, with a sinister Joker grin stretching across the hood and different scenes from Gotham wrapping the body. One guy walking by said, “That’s not a car—it’s a damn movie poster on wheels!”

🔧 Swap Meet Madness – Walking through the swap meet was like stepping into a time machine for car lovers. Row after row of rare parts, vintage signage, and hard-to-find accessories. We even saw a guy score an original HEMI intake for a price that should’ve been illegal.

Why the Turkey Run is One of a Kind

One of the best things about the Daytona Turkey Run is the diversity. One minute you’re staring at a meticulously restored ‘57 Bel Air, and the next, you’re blown away by a slammed, twin-turbo C10. You never know what’s around the next corner.

🚦 Street machines. Lowriders. Patina builds. Restored classics. Wild customs. Every single one tells a story.

One builder summed it up best: “It’s not just a car show—it’s a rolling history lesson.”

More Coverage Coming Soon!

We covered miles of asphalt and captured hours of footage and thousands of photos to bring you the best of the Spring 2025 Turkey Run. But trust me—there’s still so much more to show you.

📖 For an even deeper dive into the history of the Turkey Run and exclusive behind-the-scenes content, be sure to check out the April edition of Steel & Style!

💬 What was your favorite car from this year’s Turkey Run? Drop a comment below and let’s talk builds!

Until next time—keep the engines roaring and the passion alive! 🚗💨

#DaytonaTurkeyRun #CarShowLife #ClassicMeetsCustom #SwapMeetFinds #Daytona #SteelAndStyle

Solivita Car Show: A Day of Classics, Sports Cars, and Trucks!

The Solivita Car Show was a hit this year, attracting car enthusiasts from all walks of life to showcase their incredible rides. From timeless classics to modern sports cars, and even some jaw-dropping trucks, the event had something for everyone. The show was filled with vibrant energy and friendly competition, making it a fun-filled day for all ages.

A Diverse Display of Rides

As soon as you walked in, it was clear that this car show was more than just a gathering—it was a celebration of automotive passion. The classic cars were the stars of the show, with vintage models gleaming under the sun, showcasing years of craftsmanship and history. From muscle cars like Mustangs to the timeless beauty of classic Chevrolets, these cars turned heads and sparked conversations.

But it wasn't all about the classics. The sports cars were equally impressive, with Corvettes and other high-performance vehicles stealing the spotlight. The sleek lines, powerful engines, and polished finishes on these cars made it clear why they're so revered by enthusiasts.

And let's not forget about the trucks! From rugged off-roaders to perfectly restored vintage pickups, the trucks brought their own unique style to the show. It was a reminder that the world of car culture is vast and diverse, with something for everyone to appreciate.

Corvette Sting Ray On Display at the Solivita 2025 Car Show

The Atmosphere

What made the Solivita Car Show truly special wasn’t just the cars—it was the people. Enthusiasts, families, and visitors all came together to appreciate the beauty and engineering of these incredible machines. There were plenty of opportunities to chat with the car owners, learn about their rides, and even take some photos with them.

1927 Chevy with Matching Truck!

A Fun Time for All

The event wasn’t just about admiring cars; it was about having fun. From raffles to contests, the energy was high all day long. With over a hundred photos from the event, it's clear that this was a car show to remember. Whether you were into classic muscle, exotic sports cars, or vintage trucks, Solivita had it all, and the crowd loved it!

Race Car on Display!!!

Conclusion

The Solivita Car Show proved to be a fantastic event, bringing together a wide variety of vehicles and car enthusiasts in one place. The blend of classics, sports cars, and trucks made for a dynamic display of automotive culture. With the fun atmosphere and the chance to connect with fellow car lovers, this is an event you won’t want to miss in the future.

Stay tuned for more photos from the event, and make sure to mark your calendars for next year’s show. You won’t want to miss it!