Lucas Bell 
Barrett-Jackson’s Scottsdale auction wrapped up this past weekend, and boy what an event it was. Not only did the auction host seven VIN #001 vehicles from Detroit’s automakers, but we also got to watch as Carroll Shelby’s personal Cobra 427 Super Snake crossed the block for $5.5 million. But the auction itself wasn’t the only exciting event that took place over the weekend, as we also got to witness the return of the Barrett-Jackson Cup. This competition pits some of the country’s best builders against one another for a chance to take home $10,000 as well as one heck of a trophy. The event hasn’t been run since the companies Reno, Nevada auction seized in 2015, but it was back and better than ever in 2021. This 1970 Dodge Challenger known as Havoc won, taking home the Ultimate Best In Show award.
More than 25,000 voters participated in selecting the winner of this year’s Barrett-Jackson Cup, and it’s hard to argue against their decision. This 1970 Dodge Challenger is one mad Mopar machine, which was built by Rides by Kam from Queensland, Australia. The car was originally owned and commissioned by Robert Zahabi, but is now under the care of one Dylan Sprouse of Disney Channel fame. It’s safe to say Sprouse has great taste in muscle cars, as Havoc is no joke of a pro-touring build. Under the hood sits a 9.4L big-block Hemi V8, which is supplemented by an F-3R ProCharger. Total output is said to be around 2,000 horsepower, which is fed through a Tremec six-speed manual gearbox. Sweet life indeed, Mr. Sprouse.
Under that steel bodywork of the Dodge Challenger sits a Roadster Shop chassis, complete with independent suspension all around, and some massive Baer brakes. In front of the stoppers sit a set of staggered width 20-inch wheels, which might be the build’s only weak point design wise. Inside you’ll find a fully custom interior, which is par for the course with a build of this caliber.
“This year’s Barrett-Jackson Cup Competition was a testament to the level of talent of today’s custom coachbuilders,” said Barrett-Jackson President Steve Davis. “Over the past few years since we first hosted the Barrett-Jackson Cup, we’ve seen a tremendous surge of talent and vision take life in these custom builds. I am so honored to be a part of giving these Cup entrants the recognition they deserve. Congratulations to our winner, finalists and all of our entrants.”
Havoc the 1970 Dodge Challenger beat out four other machines in the final round of the competition: a 1932 Ford Tudor, 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air, 1963 Chevrolet Bel Air Wagon, and a 1972 Ford F-100 pickup.
While it took a few years hiatus, we’re glad to see the Barrett-Jackson Cup return. Furthermore, we can’t help but be excited as to what will come in the future. These are the sort of cars that drive automotive enthusiasm, and here’s to hoping the show continues for 2022.
