(1959 Simca Chatelaine)
Ride Details
Engine Details
Driveline Details
Chassis Details
Wheels Details
Paint Details
Body Details
Interior Details
“Stormtrooper”
When it comes to building a ride that breaks all the rules, Don Vollmer from Godfrey, Illinois nailed it with his custom 1959 Simca Chatelaine—affectionately named “Stormtrooper.” With a white-on-black look straight out of the Empire’s handbook, this little French oddball turned full-blown hot rod definitely lives up to its name.
A Build That Stands Alone
Don’s goal? Simple: “I wanted to build something no one else had.” Mission accomplished.
Imported from France to Canada, then somehow landing in Kentucky, this Simca had already taken a wild journey before Don picked it up—for free. Yep, free. From there, he spent the next two years transforming it into something straight out of a Star Wars-meets-hot rod fever dream.
With 30+ years in the scene and a resume that includes a Nova Gasser, a bagged S10, and an “insane” VW, Don knew exactly what he wanted—and more importantly, how to make it happen.
Old School Metal, Modern Muscle
Under the hood of this retro grocery-getter is a Blueprint 350ci V8, complete with aluminum heads, stainless ram horns, a Holley 600 carb, and just the right amount of chrome to catch the eye. It’s paired with a 2700 stall converter and a chassis built from the ground up—literally.
The chassis features 2×3 steel tubing, a ’62–’67 Nova front clip, and a triangulated four-link setup in the rear. With Ridetech 2600LB airbags, Viair compressor, and Ridetech valves, the Simca lays body and frame flat on the ground—and it looks absolutely killer doing it.
A Look That’s Equal Parts Stealth and Style
Painted in satin white with satin black accents, Stormtrooper isn’t flashy—it’s mean, clean, and sharp as a blade. Don handled all the bodywork and paint himself, including a full body drop and channeling. The stance is spot on, sitting on Rocket Wheels (15″ up front, 17″ in the back) wrapped in 135s and 225/50s.
The inside’s just as slick, with black pleated vinyl upholstery, a custom console, Equus gauges, and a Billet Specialties wheel for that hot rod finishing touch. It’s all tied together with a Lokar shifter and a vibe that screams classic cool with a modern twist.
Built with Heart—and a Little Help from Friends
Don did most of the work himself but was quick to give props to everyone who pitched in: Jerry Hunter, Rhonda Roloff, Roy Edwards, Tim Croxton, Joe Patton, plus businesses like St. Peters Hardware, Summit Racing, Speedway Motors, Hamilton Steel, and Dan’s Upholstery. The local support made this unique build come to life.
No Plans to Stop—But Nothing Left to Prove
For now, Don’s not looking to add much more to Stormtrooper—and honestly, why would he? It’s a show-stopper, conversation starter, and total unicorn all in one.
Owned by: Don Vollmer
Photos by: Chris Gosda
