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!
The 2022 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara Black Widow Edition takes the already capable Wrangler platform and elevates it into a purpose-built off-road machine with aggressive styling and premium customization. Showing just 16,110 miles, this example blends factory comfort and technology from the Sahara trim with SCA Performance’s renowned Black Widow package. With its lifted stance, FOX suspension, and 35-inch all-terrain tires, this Jeep is equally at home crawling trails or commanding attention on city streets. The addition of features like a WARN winch, Gorilla Glass windshield, and cold weather amenities make it a well-rounded, turnkey build that stands out both visually and functionally.
Ford’s popular F-150 is the definitive half-ton pickup truck in North America. The F-Series boasts a fine legacy dating back to 1948, and is now in the fourteenth generation. You can even have an electric F-150 if you please. But what if you want something a bit more traditional, with proper gasoline V8 power, and bearing the name of a famous Texan tuner? You’d turn to something like this white 2023 Ford F-150 Shelby from Vero Beach, Florida. Yes, Carroll Shelby didn’t only tune Mustangs; he turned his attention to selected other Ford products as well. Now, even after the great man’s demise, his name and legacy live on. This truck comes with a 5.0-liter naturally aspirated Coyote V8 under the hood, a luxury interior with a twin-panel moonroof, and two keys included with the sale. Up for sale in Vero Beach, Florida, this truck has reportedly covered only 32,000 miles so far.
Tired of the daily hustle and bustle? Feel weary from all your responsibilities and need to take a break where there’s no crowds, or even paved roads? If so, this Bright Silver Metallic 2008 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon is just the ticket. It’s got a rocking 5.3-liter V8 swap by Novak Conversions, and sits on a BentFabAZ stretched chassis for a 112-inch wheelbase, which makes this two-door Wrangler JK look quite distinctive. All that, plus a host of upgrades for better off-roading abilities are waiting for you in Peoria, Arizona with just 37,000 miles on the clock.
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