Rat rod

A rat rod is a style of custom car that imitates, and often exaggerates, the "unfinished" appearance of some hot rods of the 1940s, 1950s, and 1960s. Unlike hot rods, which are often meticulously restored and painted, rat rods typically appear deliberately rough and unpainted, often exhibiting exposed rust, primer, or bare metal. The term "rat rod" is somewhat fluid, and the aesthetic can incorporate elements of traditional hot rods, customs, and even lowriders, but with a distinct emphasis on a utilitarian, "built-not-bought" philosophy. Key characteristics often include chopped tops, lowered suspensions, minimalist interiors, and visible mechanical components. The style often references pre-World War II vehicles, but can be applied to later models as well. The "rat" aspect suggests a certain rebelliousness against the perceived perfectionism and high cost often associated with more conventional hot rod builds. While embracing a raw aesthetic, many rat rods are mechanically sound and fully functional vehicles.