Mike Kosulandich

Tom Kosulandich's 1955 Ford Thunderbird of San Pedro, California. Built with the help of his brother Mike and Greg Sharp, the Thunderbird underwent extensive customization under the skilled hands of Bill Ortega, Bill Hines, Eddie Martinez and Joe Perez. Featuring a Candy Red paint job by Hines and a custom interior by Martinez, the car debuted in its full glory at the 1963 Tridents Rod Custom Autorama, winning the Sports Car Sweepstakes. This early iteration of Mike's Thunderbird became a standout icon in the Southern California custom car scene and was later featured in Rod & Custom magazine May 1964.

Mike Kosulandich's 1929 Ford Model A Tudor Sedan. Mike was actively driving and showing this beautifully modified ’29 sedan in the early 1980s. Decades later, the car remains in pristine condition, a testament to its timeless craftsmanship and enduring appeal in the hot rod community. Photo courtesy of Mike Kosulandich.

Mike's last custom creation, this sleek Dodge Magnum, was tragically totaled in a hit-and-run accident on the freeway while returning from the NHRA Bakersfield Hot Rod Reunion. Despite its untimely end, it remains a reflection of Mike's dedication to custom car artistry. Photo courtesy of Mike Kosulandich.

Mike Kosulandich of San Pedro, California has been an active participant in the car culture community, cultivating lasting relationships with key industry figures like Greg Sharp and contributing to the creation of iconic vehicles.

Early Life and Interest in Custom Cars

Mike’s passion for custom cars emerged in the 1950s during the golden age of hot rods and custom builds. In 1957, he met Greg Sharp, forging a lifelong friendship rooted in their mutual love for automotive culture. The pair spent their early days immersed in the Southern California car scene, frequenting local custom shops and the iconic Lions Drag Strip. Mike’s connection to the burgeoning Kustom Kulture movement was further solidified through collaborations with his brother on a series of projects that showcased their shared love for automotive artistry.

The 1955 Thunderbird Custom

One of Mike's most notable contributions to the custom car scene was his involvement in building a 1955 Ford Thunderbird with his brother and buddy Greg Sharp. The car was customized by legendary builder Bill Hines, known for his pioneering techniques in leadwork, and featured an interior upholstered by the celebrated Eddie Martinez. The Thunderbird achieved acclaim when it won the Sports Car Sweepstakes at the Tridents Sports Area show in 1963.

Transition to a 1965 Riviera

After selling the award-winning Thunderbird, Tom acquired a brand-new 1965 Buick Riviera. This vehicle became another canvas for Tom and Mike's passion for custom cars. Junior Conway, a renowned painter in the custom car community, transformed the Riviera with a striking Candy Purple finish. The paintwork was done as part of an unconventional trade—in exchange for a patio that Tom helped build for Conway.

Legacy and Influence

Mike’s involvement in the custom car community spans decades, and his contributions reflect the deep camaraderie and shared creativity that define the Kustom Kulture movement. His collaborations with legends like Bill Hines, Eddie Martinez, and Junior Conway, along with his enduring friendship with Greg Sharp, highlight his role in the development of mid-century custom car culture.

Personal Collection and Historical Preservation

In addition to his hands-on work, Mike has amassed a collection of photographs and memorabilia documenting the evolution of custom car culture. His archives serve as a valuable resource for historians and enthusiasts looking to preserve the legacy of this uniquely American art form.