Goodguys Chevrolet Performance Builder of the Year is Back

The 2024 Goodguys Rod & Custom Association calendar is in full swing and so is one of its most popular programs: the Chevrolet Performance Builder of the Year.

Since its debut in 2021, the initiative has recognized dozens of talented builders, and it honors two at the end of each season.

The two categories available for competition are known as “GM Iron” and “GM Retro Iron.” The former recognizes a General Motors-bodied vehicle paired with a GM powertrain, while the latter is open to any make or model utilizing a GM powertrain setup. The competition has featured some special builds, many featuring Chevrolet Performance crate engines* and other performance parts from the brand.

At a variety of Goodguys events throughout the year, a special Saturday “Builders Choice” special parking area is designated for Builder of the Year competitors. Finalists from both categories are chosen at each event, with the yearlong winners decided by Goodguys judges in the fall. The chosen vehicles then take a place of honor in Scottsdale, Arizona, during the Goodguys Speedway Motors Southwest Nationals at famed WestWorld of Scottsdale. Each is featured among the special vehicles receiving some of Goodguys’ most prestigious yearlong awards.

While many car show trophies go to the vehicle owners, builders across the country appreciate the Chevrolet Performance Builder of the Year program for the recognition of their talent and hard work. Plus, their businesses often benefit from such an honor.

Beyond simple recognition though, the program also provides prizes to the chosen winners in the form of Chevrolet Performance Connect & Cruise Crate Powertrain Systems. The GM Iron champion receives a package featuring an LT4 crate engine* with a SuperMatic 8L90-E eight-speed automatic transmission. Meanwhile, the GM Retro Iron winner gets a ZZ6 crate power plant* with a Hydra-Matic-4L65-E four-speed automatic.

Last year, Hot Rod Garage in Sand Springs, Oklahoma, took the GM Iron top prize for a 1963 Corvette powered by a Don Hardy-built 427 cu.-in. LS engine. Meanwhile, Rutterz Rodz out of Bristol, Tennessee, won in GM Retro Iron with a 1941 Willys featuring a Mast Motorsports LS3.

For builders and owners alike, this award is one of the most coveted on the show circuit. You can check out more on the Goodguys website and see all of the 2024 qualifiers thus far.

Also, keep watching The BLOCK for coverage of Goodguys events across the nation, including a look at many Chevrolet Performance Builder of the Year candidates.

*Because of their effect on a vehicle’s emissions performance, these engines are intended exclusively for use in competition vehicles. These engines are designed and intended for use in vehicles operated exclusively for competition: in racing or organized competition on courses separate from public roads, streets or highways. Installation or use of these engines on a vehicle operated on public roads, streets or highways is likely to violate U.S., Canadian, and state and provincial laws and regulations related to motor vehicle emissions.