One-Off Dodge Concept To be Auctioned

An unique Dodge Deora Concept is set to go under the hammer at RM's Icons of Speed and Style auction, expecting to fetch between $350,000 - $550,000. Though it may be hard to believe that it was built over forty years ago, the car was designed by Harry Bentley Bradley and built by legendary hot rodders Mike and Larry Alexander back in 1965.

Transforming Harry Bradley's futuristic sketches into a working one-off pickup truck was a true challenge for the “A Brothers”, but their efforts have been paid in full.

The car won nine trophies and the Ridler Award at the 1967 Detroit Autorama. In fact, that was the only time the “A Brothers” ever showed the car in competition. Shortly after its debut, the Deora became one of the first 16 "Hot Wheels" model cars offered to youngsters all over the country. In fact, "Hot Wheels" sold millions of miniature Deoras in several colors. Rod & Custom actually tested the Deora in its September 1967 issue.

Originally painted in Candy Gold, the car was repainted in Lime Green Pearl in 1968. In 1998, the Deora was taken out of storage and re-restored to resemble its 1967 appearance, but some believe the “A Brothers” didn't keep the paint formula, so the current color might be a bit greener than the original gold.

The winning bidder will receive extensive records on this car from the consignor, including copies of Harry Bradley's personal notes on its design. The Icons of Speed and Style auction is scheduled to take place on September 26 at the Petersen Automotive Museum.