A Great New Ride
Ed Tillrock“I’ve been an illustrator in the Chicago area for over 30 years, but my love for hot rods
goes back to my childhood. A couple of years ago my two passions collided; my love of
art (drawing and oil painting) and my love for everything with wheels. The techniques
I use today; pencil on illustration board and oil on canvas were a natural development
for me. My work is not a photographic replica, but my interpretation of what I see in my
mind’s eye. This artwork is an outlet for me. I’d love to own all of the cars and bikes I draw,
but that’s not possible. So I can take ownership by laying down some graphite. I try to
make my artwork feel as though I am a part of the scene, not just standing there viewing a
static image, but able to touch it, and to hear the engine rev as you go through the gears.”
Our Cover Artist Ed Tillrock
The new 1941 Fords were dramatically updated from the 1940 Ford models. These Fords
with their wider stance and a longer wheelbase, were bigger, roomier cars than their
predecessors. It was considered the best-handling production car of the time and boasted
improved brakes to help control the larger, heavier bodies. Improved visibility, handling
and acceleration made them fun cars to drive. Even the new L-head straight six cylinder
engine (the first Ford six-cylinder since 1906) had plenty of get-up-and-go thanks to new
transmission ratios for improved performance being offered in 1941. This was Ford’s last full
production year prior to our involvement in World War Two.
El Sur Grande
A beautiful 1941
Ford five-window
Coupe at California’s
breathtaking Big Sur