Red Rocket Racer was waiting under red showroom lights when I saw it. Rad Rux has built an open cockpit car with wide wheels, bright star markings and a body that looks pieced together from tough old metal. I could not tell you where the garage stands, but I would recognize the car again.

The nose is broad and low, with round lights and a heavy front edge. Behind it sits a cramped driver's space and exposed machinery. The red paint ties the mismatched panels together without hiding their rough surfaces, which suits a machine built from salvage.

I am not a man who needs to prove himself by driving fast. I do understand the satisfaction of getting an awkward collection of parts to fit. Rux has made this one look eager to leave the showroom, and I hope whoever takes the wheel has more patience than the name suggests.