An term that describes a car enthusiast who believes that performance trumps appearance when it comes to classic cars. Many rust pilots are veterans of the car show hobby that have tired of the over done perfection of trailer queens,class winners and 100 point restorations.They have decided to drive what they love. Reliable performance and drivability are key factors in determining what a rust pilot drives. Appearance is a distant second and may include exterior finishes in primer,worn original paint or non restored rust.
A rust pilot can find his ride in a barn, a backyard or a scrap yard and leave the exterior as found
by ovalman February 26, 2009