Ain’t That Grand – Scenes from the 2020 Grand National Roadster Show

We’re a few weeks into the new year, which means it’s time for the indoor car show season to kick into high gear. And when it comes to indoor car shows, it’s hard to top The Grand Daddy of Them All, the 2020 Grand National Roadster Show. The 71st edition of the GNRS kicked off today at the Fairplex in Pomona, California, filling seven buildings with some of the freshest and coolest rods, customs, street machines, muscle cars, and other incredible rides from across the country – and around the globe.

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Of course, the Grand National Roadster Show is synonymous with its signature award, America’s Most Beautiful Roadster – a 9½-foot trophy bestowed upon some of the most well-recognized and beloved hot rods in history. AMBR, which is presented by ARP Fasteners, has decades of history and prestige behind it, and a fresh crop of ten roadsters was unveiled this week to vie for this coveted prize. As usual, the lineup included range of styles and approaches. Which do you think will take the top honor?





An added attraction this year is the Al Slonaker Memorial Award, given to the top-judged non-roadster debut vehicle at the show. Like AMBR, it is presented by ARP Fasteners and comes with a $12,500 payout and an impressive perpetual trophy. Ten contenders are lined up to compete for this honor, and we don’t envy the judges who are tasked with evaluating these rides and determining a winner.



Each year, the Grand National Roadster Show showcases a specific style of car in Building 9 and this year’s focus is “Drag Racing Then & Now.” Presented by Lucas Oil and sponsored by Cragar Wheel, this building is filled with an incredible selection of vintage and historic dragsters, Funny Cars, A/FX machines, Pro Stockers, Fuel Altereds, and more. There are even some well-known drivers on hand to shake hands with fans.

There are many other regular features that make the 2020 Grand National Roadster Show special, including the Suede Palace for traditional rods and customs, a Pinstriper’s Gathering, Trophy Girl contest, plus scores of cool cars – hot rods, customs, muscle cars, street machines, lowriders, trucks, and much more. Check out the photo gallery to get a taste of what’s here. It’s sure to cure your cabin fever.

Photos by Damon Lee & Steven Bunker

Editor, Goodguys Gazette

Damon Lee began snapping photos at car shows when he was 10, tagging along with his father to events throughout the Midwest. He has combined his passion for cars and knack for writing and imagery into a 20-year career in the automotive aftermarket, writing for titles like Super Chevy and Rod & Custom and, more recently, working for respected industry leaders Speedway Motors and Goodguys Rod & Custom Association.