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Introduction
Hey there, car enthusiasts! Ever heard of Boyd Coddington? If you’re into hot rods, you probably have. This guy was a legend in the world of custom car design. Born on August 28, 1944, in Rupert, Idaho, Boyd Coddington wasn’t just any car designer. He was the car designer. Sadly, he passed away on February 27, 2008, in Whittier, California, but his legacy lives on. Let’s dive into the life, achievements, and net worth of this automotive genius.
| Name | Boyd Coddington |
|---|---|
| Occupation | Hot Rod Designer |
| Date of Birth | August 28, 1944 |
| Birth Place | Rupert, Idaho, USA |
| Country | United States |
| Net Worth | $12 Million |
| Source of Income | Hot Rod Shop, TV Show |
| Height | 6 feet (approx.) |
| Weight | 180 lbs (approx.) |
| Ethnicity | Caucasian |
| Parents | Lorna Sparrow Coddington, Harold Coddington |
| Siblings | Not publicly known |
| Spouse | Jo Coddington (m. 2002–2008), Diane Marie Ragone Elkins (m. 1971–1996) |
| Children | Not publicly known |
| Education | High School |
Early Life: From Rupert, ID to Hot Rod Heaven
Boyd Coddington was born to Lorna Sparrow Coddington and Harold Coddington. Growing up in Rupert, Idaho, a small town with a population that could fit into a football stadium, Boyd developed an early fascination with cars. By the time he was 13, he was already tinkering with engines and dreaming of custom designs. Can you imagine being that young and already knowing what you want to do with your life?
The First Spark
Boyd’s passion for cars wasn’t just a teenage phase. He moved to California in the late ’60s, which was the place to be for anyone interested in custom cars. California was like the Hollywood of hot rods, and Boyd was its rising star. He started working as a machinist at Disneyland during the day, but his nights were spent in his garage, building his first hot rods.
Career: The Rise of a Hot Rod King
In 1978, Boyd took a leap of faith and opened the Boyd Coddington Hot Rod Shop in Cypress, California. This wasn’t just any car shop; it was a dream factory. Boyd’s designs were revolutionary. He combined traditional hot rod aesthetics with modern engineering, creating cars that were not only beautiful but also incredibly functional.
American Hot Rod: The TV Show
Boyd’s fame skyrocketed when he became the star of TLC’s "American Hot Rod." The show gave viewers an inside look at the high-stakes world of custom car building. It wasn’t just about cars; it was about the drama, the deadlines, and the sheer passion that went into each build.
Notable Designs and Achievements
Boyd’s designs were so iconic that they won numerous awards. One of his most famous creations was the "Boydster," a sleek, custom roadster that epitomized his style. Another masterpiece was the "CadZZilla," a 1948 Cadillac Series 62 Sedanette that was transformed into a low-slung, futuristic hot rod.
Personal Life: More Than Just Cars
Boyd was married three times. His first marriage was to Diane Marie Ragone Elkins from 1971 to 1996. After their divorce, he married Jo Coddington in 2002, and they remained together until his death in 2008. Boyd had children, but he kept his personal life relatively private, focusing more on his passion for cars.
Challenges and Triumphs
Boyd’s journey wasn’t always smooth. He faced numerous challenges, including financial difficulties and health issues. However, his passion for hot rods never wavered. He was a fighter, and his resilience was evident in every car he built.
Net Worth: The Value of a Legacy
At the time of his death, Boyd Coddington’s net worth was estimated to be around $12 million. His income came from various sources, including his hot rod shop, TV show, and numerous car shows and events. Boyd’s legacy is priceless, and his influence on the world of custom car design is immeasurable.
Boyd’s Enduring Impact: A Final Reflection
Boyd Coddington may have left this world, but his spirit lives on in every custom car that rolls out of a garage. His innovative designs, relentless passion, and larger-than-life personality made him a legend. Whether you’re a seasoned car enthusiast or a newbie, Boyd’s story is a testament to what you can achieve when you follow your passion.
