Among the flood of flashy builds that debut each year at SEMA, few manage to become lasting legends. But “Rhodium,” a 1968 Chevrolet Camaro crafted by East Bay Muscle Cars, isn’t just another showpiece—it’s a benchmark for what a true restomod should be. First revealed at SEMA in 2019, the car remains just as breathtaking today, now proudly part of the Mantranga Collection.
Owned by collector Kent Mantranga, Rhodium isn’t a museum piece—it’s driven. That’s no small feat for someone managing a sizable fleet of high-performance cars. When Mantranga first took delivery, only minor tweaks were needed: a few small leaks fixed, a slight ride-height adjustment, and refinements around the bellhousing. Everything else was sorted, a testament to East Bay Muscle Cars’ meticulous workmanship.
Under the hood sits the real centerpiece—an LQ4-based V8 that’s been transformed into a ProCharged monster pushing around 800 horsepower. Gone is the traditional LT4 roots-style supercharger; in its place, a centrifugal setup delivers smooth, relentless power. The Tremec T56 Magnum six-speed manual channels that force through a modernized chassis engineered by Chris Alston, giving the car both agility and durability.
Stopping and cornering power are handled by a full disc-brake setup and suspension geometry that allows Rhodium to hang with far newer sports cars. Inside, the craftsmanship continues—custom-trimmed leather, sculpted panels, and 3D-printed components blend innovation with comfort.
Shawn Davis of Autotopia LA recently revisited the Camaro and found it better than ever—tame in traffic, ferocious when unleashed. That balance of civility and savagery is what makes Rhodium more than just a high-horsepower show car. It’s proof that when engineering, design, and passion align, the result doesn’t need hype. It simply speaks for itself.