By Grant Cox – Photography By The Author
For Randy Londagin, the love of automobiles was never just a weekend pastime; it was a lifelong passion ignited during his youth in the heyday of the 1960s muscle car era. Growing up surrounded by the steady rumble of V-8 engines and the bold styling of American classics, Randy was captivated from the very beginning. While other kids dreamed of baseball cards and comic books, Randy memorized engine specs and tailfin designs.
Fast-forward to 2019, after years of collecting, restoring, and admiring iconic rides, Randy caught wind of a one-of-a-kind 1956 C1 Corvette project underway at DTAB Customs. The team at DTAB was deep into transforming the already-legendary Vette into a modern monster with timeless style, and Randy was instantly intrigued. After connecting with the shop, what began as an inquiry quickly evolved into a partnership. Together, they would turn this Corvette into a build that merged vintage soul with modern performance and turned heads nationwide.
The first step was radical: strip the car to its fiberglass bones and send the chassis over to Phat Phabz. There, a handcrafted tubular air suspension chassis was built to allow the Corvette to lie flat on the pavement when parked—the ultimate stance. A 2015 GM 12-bolt rearend was narrowed 9 inches to perfectly tuck under the widened factory fenders, making room for custom 18×10 U.S. Mags Sting Ray two-piece forged billet wheels wrapped in classic Diamondback Redline tires. Out back features a four-link suspension setup with Firestone sleeve bags and an Air Lift 3P system, ensuring comfort. The frontend achieved the same level of precision with custom A-arms, a Mustang II rack-and-pinion steering system, and an Ididit direct-fit column. Matching 18×8 wheels and 245/40-18 tires, paired with Wilwood brakes, enhanced both handling and stopping power to modern standards.
Underhood, things got even more serious. The original powerplant was replaced with a hand-built 500hp LS3 by R&P Machine Shop in Tecumseh, Oklahoma. The motor was given a Texas Speed custom cam to add some serious attitude, while 2-1/2-inch Hooker headers and a MagnaFlow stainless cat-back system ensured that this beast not only ran strong but sounded ferocious. Power was delivered through a custom-built 4L70E automatic transmission by DannahShay Transmissions, delivering a perfect balance of muscle and modern reliability.
The Corvette’s sleek new stance wasn’t the only upgrade. DTAB Customs worked their magic on the body, shaving the antenna, front signals, and cowl while adding widened rear tubs for a more aggressive tuck. The exterior paint, a flawless blend of Mercedes Charcoal with Axalta Ruby Red coves, is as elegant as it is intimidating.
Inside, the custom touches continued. Sound Depth outfitted the interior with Wise Guys bucket seats wrapped in rich Tandy merlot leather. The dash was shaved, smoothed, and leather-wrapped to match the interior. A SPARC Industries steering wheel and Mini Cooper door handles added just the right amount of flair.
Because every great car needs a soundtrack, Sound Depth also installed a top-shelf Memphis Audio system, complete with an 1,800-watt setup, dual 10-inch subs, and 6-1/2-inch component speakers tucked into custom kick panels—perfect for drowning out the roar of the highway or just vibing in the show lot.
In 2019, Randy’s Corvette made its public debut at the SEMA Show. The custom C1 1956 amazed onlookers with its perfect combination of classic style and modern customization. Since then, Randy has taken the Vette on a coast-to-coast tour, showcasing the outcome of his vision and the craftsmanship of some of Oklahoma’s finest builders. Randy makes it clear that this build wouldn’t have happened without a dedicated team. He extends heartfelt thanks to DTAB Customs, Phat Phabz, Sound Depth, DannahShay Transmissions, and R&P Machine for helping make his dream ride a reality.
“This car is everything I dreamed of and more. It takes me back to the golden age of muscle cars, but with the modern performance and comfort to enjoy it anywhere,” Randy says.
From the streets of small-town Oklahoma to the bright lights of Las Vegas, this 1956 Corvette proves that passion, collaboration, and a clear vision can turn nostalgia into rolling art and that Randy Londagin’s affair with American muscle is far from over. MR
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