about ratlook....

The rat-look vehicles that we see today all originate from the rat-rods of the mid 20th century. These were a form of hot-rod that appeared "unfinished" with just the bare essentials needed to be driven. Rat-rods were meant to be driven - they were not show cars.

Many different subcultures have been credited with influencing rat-rods - bikers, greasers, rockabillys and punks to name a few. Nobody seems to have a definitive answer as to where the rat look originated - a popular theory is that artist Robert Williams owned the first rat-rod, a 1932 Ford Roadster painted in primer.

A typical rat rod is a pre-war vehicle with bumpers, bonnet and running boards removed. The bodies can be channeled over the chassis frame and sectioned. The roofs can be chopped for a lower profile. Iron crosses, skulls and other accessories are often used.

More recently, the Volkswagen air-cooled scene has embraced the philosophy of the rat-rodders and the "new" rat look was born. Natural "patina" (original paint finish complete with rust and blemishes) is the most desired look for the ratty Volkswagens. Primer and satin black paint finishes are also used within the rat scene.

The newest development is where a modern car is "rat-looked" on purpose, with bodywork rusted on purpose, old school accessories everywhere and use of dull paint and pinstriping.

Opinions are divided on the rat look scene as a whole - you either love it or you hate it.....