Pioneering thrash metal rock band Metallica was formed in Los Angeles in 1981 by guitarist and vocalist James Hetfield and drummer Lars Ulrich. They are known for a distinctive brand of speed metal riffs, driving beats, and dark lyrical landscapes. With tastes as varied as his vocal and instrumental range, Hetfield is also a connoisseur of custom crafted heavy metal automobilia. After a lifetime of selecting, assembling, and building his unique fleet of custom vintage cars, they'll be put on display at the Petersen Automotive Museum in the band's birthplace. Let's take a look at Hetfield's automotive vision and collection.

Lincoln Continental

Metallica James Hetfield Collection 2
via Autoblog

"Reclaimed Rust: The James Hetfield Collection" will be open for display on January 30th at the Petersen Automotive Museum. It features an assortment of cars hand selected by Hetfield along with a collection of Metallica memorabilia. All the cars in Hetfield's collection have been customized to his personal taste, including my favorite the Lincoln Continental pictured above in flat black paint, custom bodywork, tinted glass, a slick set of rims, and lake pipes.

1937 Ford Coupe "Crimson Ghost"

Metallica James Hetfield Collection 5
via Autoblog

The 1937 Ford Coupe "Crimson Ghost" is another exceptional addition to the Collection. With an exterior that stays faithful to its original lines, it's replete with custom touches such as filled seams, tucked fenders, and subtle chrome touches. The "Crimson Ghost" takes the best of the 1937 Ford and makes it even better like all cars in the Collection. Hetfield really has an eye for vintage car customization.

Where And When

Metallica James Hetfield Collection 3
via Autoblog

At the opening night celebration of "Reclaimed Rust: The James Hetfield Collection"on January 30th, Hetfield himself will be in attendance kicking off the festivities with an auction for two limited edition Metallica-inspired guitars. Like his cars, styling cues for the guitars are dramatic. VIP tickets for the event are $99 with general admission only $35. Buckle up.

Source: Autoblog