Summer time is finally here!  With perfect weather and sunshine, we bring you our Babe of the Month for July, Miss Aieko Espejo! Not only is she a “car girl” but you can catch her cruising the streets of San Jose in her ’51 Chevy Deluxe when she’s not in front of the camera. With no further ado, here’s Miss Aieko!

Name

Aieko Espejo

Sign

Sagittarius

Hometown

San Jose, CA

Current Residence

San Jose, CA

Hair Color

Brown

Eye Color

Brown

Favorite Part About Living In Cali

My favorite part about living in California is the beautiful weather, beaches, mixed cultures and the car scene. I love to travel, but I’ll never move out of California.

When Did You Start Modeling

I started modeling three years ago as a hobby. My love for cars and fashion collaborated with my shoots and the rest is history. I’m thankful every day for having the opportunity to be in the presence of gorgeous machinery and work with some extremely talented photographers.

 What’s Your Favorite Car Show

My favorite car show is Mooneyes, period. Both the LA and Japan shows display outstanding builds as well as the culture that accompanies the cars. Every time I attend a Mooneyes show, I always feel inspired and proud to own my ’51.

How Many Times Have You Been To Mooneyes Japan And What’s Your Favorite Part About the show?

I’ve been to Mooneyes Japan once. My favorite part about the show is the end. I like to hear the cars fire up and see them drive out as a crowd. There’s nothing more beautiful than seeing a machine move as smooth as it looks!

What Car Show Do You Dream Of Attending

I dream of attending the Hot Rod & Custom Show- Sydney, Australia. I have made a handful of Australian friends over the years by simply attending other car shows. To my understanding, the car scene is just as big out there as it is here!

What’s Your Favorite Classic Car?

There are too many cars to choose from to call my favorite. But one that I have always marveled over is the 1950 Mercury. In its original state, the body lines are clean and sleek and there’s just enough window to keep its proportion. The cool factor about the Mercury is anything can be altered and it will still have its own character. One day I would like to add a ’50 Mercury to my collection.

Have You Owned A Classic?

Over the years I have owned project cars. Some ran, some were just for parts. The first car I worked on my own was a 1961 Ford Falcon. As a Chevy lover, I chose a Ford because it’s what my father loves. Although I did not complete that project car, I learned a lot about how old machines functioned and how rare certain parts and years were. I currently own a 1951 Chevy Deluxe and I plan on keeping her until my death!

When Did You Get Your ’51 And How Did You Find It

I found my ’51 online 2 years ago. It was located in a remote area, but had a straight, clean body. It currently has an LS2 motor and drives pretty beastly. I decided to keep an original stock look and plan to bag and paint her later this year (after cruising season.)

Our Babe Of The Month: The Lovely Miss Aieko Espejo

I named her ’51 Mija because I treat her like my baby…she’s always sheltered and is my money pit. I was originally looking for a 51 Ford Shoebox or a 62 Chevy Bel Air, so coming across a 51 Deluxe Bel Air just seemed like it was meant to be.

Favorite Part About Awning A Classic car

My favorite part about owning a classic car is building it. I can build it however I want, no matter how long it takes me! Cruising it is the bonus.

Worst Part About Owning A Classic Car

The worst part about owning a classic car is the executing the finished product I have planned in my head. They never seem to be done and a lot of times it’s because one problem will lead to the next. I suppose that’s just the fun part of maintaining a piece of history.

Favorite Place To Go Cruising

Considering I now have a reliable motor in my car, distance is not an issue for cruising. I’m from Northern California but the drives going South are life changing. If I’m not cruising in downtown San Jose, Ill be on the 101 south.

Best Part About Cruising

The best part about cruising is the wind, music and scenery..stress free.

Upcoming Travel Plans

I plan to visit Cuba in a few months to see their classic cars and embrace the culture.

What Do You Enjoy Doing On Your Free Time

My hobbies are boxing, writing, building/cruising my ’51, of course!

Any Family Into Old Cars?

Yes, my father had a 1964 Galaxie plus many Fords. I grew up watching my father drag race at the Sonoma, Bakersfield and Eureka Raceways. I always thank him for introducing me to cars at such a young age.

First Time You Got Tattooed?

My first tattoo was my last name on my back at the age of 17. My parents we not very happy about it, but I still love it to this day. The last tattoo I got is the lace capped off on my wrist. It completes my sleeve and compliments the rest of the art work…I would like my entire back done one day, but my car comes first :)

Last Time You Got Tattooed

2 years ago..too long.

Favorite Tattoo Artist

My favorite tattoo artist is Ben Grillo. He’s so detailed and clean with his art work

Where Can We See More Of Your Work

Instagram: aieko_espejo

NOTE FROM ROD AUTHORITY  EDITOR, Dave Cruikshank: We love beautiful lines. Regardless of whether it rolls on four wheels or walks on two legs.  Our “Babe Of The Month” series is our tribute to all women, sisters, mothers and wives! We love providing an avenue so female photographers and models have a way to artistically express themselves, as well as earn a living, whether a side gig or full time job.  Please join us each month for “Babe Of The Month “as we salute women, kustoms, fashion and car culture!