This 1985 Peterbilt 359 Replica Mini Semi is a one-of-one, hand-crafted masterpiece — not a Peterbilt, but a Betterbilt, built by Tom Dell in Pittsfield, Illinois for Leisure Investment Co. of Hayward, California. Constructed entirely from steel as an exact ¾-scale replica of a full-size Class 8 semi truck, it represents over 10,000 hours of labor and three years of meticulous fabrication. Completed at an astounding cost of $500,000 in 1985 (equivalent to over $1.5 million today), this fully operational custom truck stands as a singular piece of American craftsmanship and mechanical art. Having remained in an exclusive private collection, it shows only 5,000 miles since completion and retains its original untouched condition, appearing as if it were freshly finished yesterday. This truck has never before been offered for public sale, making it an unprecedented opportunity to acquire a true one-off collector’s piece — a creation that has no equal anywhere in the world!
The Mini Semi's exterior is finished in a white base with bold red and blue striping, a timeless Americana-inspired livery that enhances its commanding proportions. Every panel was hand-formed from solid steel, with all metalwork bent and shaped by hand — no molds, no automation. Chrome trim components, including the grille, stacks, and tanks, were plated in Rock Island, Illinois, while paintwork was handled by White Auto Body of Pittsfield. Authentic proportions extend to the details — Kenworth-sourced exhaust guards were scaled precisely to match the ¾ design, while working air horns, lights, and polished tanks replicate a true show rig. The truck’s craftsmanship and visual presence earned it Best in Show honors at the 26th Annual AutoRama in Santa Rosa, California, where it was later featured on official event T-shirts. Inside, the cab exudes vintage semi-truck style with custom blue diamond-stitched upholstery, woodgrain dash trim, and a polished wood steering wheel surrounded by chrome-bezel gauges. A functional sleeper cab behind the seats features integrated storage and living comforts, reflecting the truck’s dual purpose as both a display vehicle and working hauler.
Power comes from a turbocharged 636ci V8 Caterpillar 3208 diesel engine, delivering reliable torque and a commanding exhaust note befitting a heavy-duty rig. The engine is paired with a Fuller Road Ranger 10-speed manual transmission with overdrive, providing authentic truck-driving engagement. This mini semi is not just for show — it features a full complement of air-powered systems, including air seats, air windows, air brakes, and an air horn, all scaled perfectly for operational realism. The all-steel chassis rides on dual rear axles, emphasizing its authenticity and durability. Adding to its uniqueness, the truck includes a matching Feather-Lite enclosed car trailer, fully equipped with air conditioning, propane system, outdoor awning, bathroom, closet, and sink — turning the combination into the ultimate toy hauler or show display rig. The project began when Tom Dell, a steel fabrication expert, was commissioned after Dave Spurgeon of Hayward, California heard about Dell’s earlier half-scale semis on the Paul Harvey radio show. The two met, and Dell agreed to create a ¾-scale version capable of towing a full-size trailer — built entirely from his own design, with no blueprints. The result was this one-of-one Betterbilt, a handmade marvel of precision and passion. Upon delivery, the truck immediately drew national attention — one buyer even offered $1 million on the spot at a California car show, but the owner declined. Its legacy as a one-off, award-winning showpiece remains unmatched in the custom truck world.
This 1985 Peterbilt 359 Replica Mini Semi is a one-of-one, hand-crafted masterpiece — not a Peterbilt, but a Betterbilt, built by Tom Dell in Pittsfield, Illinois for Leisure Investment Co. of Hayward, California. Constructed entirely from steel as an exact ¾-scale replica of a full-size Class 8 semi truck, it represents over 10,000 hours of labor and three years of meticulous fabrication. Completed at an astounding cost of $500,000 in 1985 (equivalent to over $1.5 million today), this fully operational custom truck stands as a singular piece of American craftsmanship and mechanical art. Having remained in an exclusive private collection, it shows only 5,000 miles since completion and retains its original untouched condition, appearing as if it were freshly finished yesterday. This truck has never before been offered for public sale, making it an unprecedented opportunity to acquire a true one-off collector’s piece — a creation that has no equal anywhere in the world!
This 1985 Peterbilt 359 Replica Mini Semi is a one-of-one, hand-crafted masterpiece — not a Peterbilt, but a Betterbilt, built by Tom Dell in Pittsfield, Illinois for Leisure Investment Co. of Hayward, California. Constructed entirely from steel as an exact ¾-scale replica of a full-size Class 8 semi truck, it represents over 10,000 hours of labor and three years of meticulous fabrication. Completed at an astounding cost of $500,000 in 1985 (equivalent to over $1.5 million today), this fully operational custom truck stands as a singular piece of American craftsmanship and mechanical art. Having remained in an exclusive private collection, it shows only 5,000 miles since completion and retains its original untouched condition, appearing as if it were freshly finished yesterday. This truck has never before been offered for public sale, making it an unprecedented opportunity to acquire a true one-off collector’s piece — a creation that has no equal anywhere in the world!
Jeep’s Gladiator offers all those fun features of the Wrangler such as the removable doors and roof in a midsize pickup truck package. Yes, for those who need a Jeep with a cargo bed, this American off-roader maker has got you covered. The current generation of Gladiator is the JT which was sold from 2020 onwards, based on the Wrangler JL which preceded it by one model year. Today’s Gladiator is no regular one, though. It’s a 2022 Jeep Gladiator Hellcat Powered AMW 707 with the AMW 707 Hellcat conversion package. That includes a monster 6.2-liter HEMI with a supercharger tacked on, while you and your passengers luxuriously lounge upon a premium Tuscany leather interior. All this awaits you in Scappoose, Oregon with just 22,500 miles done so far. Tempted? Give in and call us.
The fourteenth generation of the Ford F-150 was introduced in 2021, and remains the current one on sale. There are several variants, including the Raptor and Lightning, but this particular truck is a little different. You see, it’s a 2021 Ford F-150 Shelby which, as the last part of its name suggests, has received tuning by Shelby American, the company founded by the legendary Carroll Shelby. Yes, Shelby didn’t only tune Mustangs; he turned his attention to other Ford models, and after his demise, the company continues that fine legacy. So, just how potent is this machine? Well, how does 950 horsepower grab you? We’d say that it grabs you very strongly indeed. If you’d like to own this fearsome beast, it’s up for sale in Torrance with a mere 47,521 miles on it so far.
Are you the sort of person who has enemies? Have you annoyed some people in a rather great degree? Do you operate in a high risk high reward environment within the scope of the law, of course? Contrary as to what you might think, there are plenty of law-abiding folks who fit this bill. Perhaps you’re in charge of a large corporation that is of interest to a competitor. Maybe you’re a celebrity or sportsperson with a lot of jealous contenders. Either way, this 2023 Cadillac Escalade ESV 4WD Sport Platinum Custom is the perfect way to ride in safety. It’s got bullet proofing by Exec Armor at B6 level, and even features bulletproof custom tires! Join us as we take you through the salient features of this luxury SUV that’s been customized to be one of the safest places to be.
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