The Mars logo was designed shortly after the group name was officially chosen. A planetary shape as a play on words to the planet Mars, and the side profile of an MGB GT to be the mascot car. The car in question was an unfinished project for 2 different Mars members. Later, nicknamed "burn barrel" for other reasons. The original outline that translated into today's logo came from a side profile photo of this car.

This 1972 MGB GT suffered from horrible rotting rust and repairs that did not hold up. An attempt was made to patch the car up enough to take it racing, but there was just no real structure left to support it. So, instead of just crushing it all at the scrapper, all parts that could be used have been removed and stashed away to keep other cars on the road.

It only made sense to make a full-scale replica of the logo using the car it was traced from. 20 minutes with a Sawzall in the cold, and with help from metal hot glue gun, we were left with the ultimate MG owners wall art/background prop for our new space

Photos from: Jon Zomer & Tom Sturdy

Spanners 104: Mike Pixley’s '56 MGA Coupe

In Episode 104 of Spanners, we get to know Mike Pixley, an artist and car lover with a knack for blending creativity and engineering. Mike’s passion for classic cars runs deep, and he’s never been one to settle for ordinary. His latest project, a 1956 MGA Coupe, perfectly shows how he turns old cars into something truly special.

Falling in Love With Cars

Mike’s story starts in the garage, where he spent countless hours as a kid tinkering with tools and dreaming about cars. He also fondly remembers track days with his dad, which fueled his love for racing and all things automotive. One of his favorite memories? As an 11-year-old, he got lunch lap ride alongs in two original Ferrari 500 Testa Rossas. That’s the kind of experience that sticks with you forever and helped shape Mike’s lifelong obsession with cars.

These early experiences led Mike to vintage open-wheel racing, where he now competes in Formula Continental alongside his dad. Racing sharpens his skills and fuels his creativity, both of which he brings to his car projects.

The Lotus Elan: Too Perfect to Drive

Before diving into the world of MGAs, Mike restored a Lotus Elan, a beautiful and lightweight British sports car. He poured years of work into making the car perfect. But when it was done, it was so flawless that he couldn’t bring himself to race it or even drive it on the street. Feeling like the car deserved to be more than a garage queen, he decided to sell it, sending it back to England where it could be used and appreciated. That decision taught Mike a valuable lesson: sometimes, cars are meant to be driven, not just admired.

The “Wabi-Sabi” MGA

After the Elan, Mike took on his first MGA project with a very different mindset. He wanted a car he could enjoy without worrying about every little scratch or imperfection. The goal was simple: a fun, beach-ready car that didn’t mind a bit of sand in the seats. This carefree attitude led Mike to embrace the Japanese concept of “wabi-sabi,” which finds beauty in imperfection.

The MGA’s wear and tear became part of its charm, turning it into a car that wasn’t just fun to look at but a joy to drive. Owning this car also introduced Mike to a community of like-minded British car enthusiasts. Through meetups and events, he’s inspired others to take a more relaxed approach to classic car ownership, focusing on the experience rather than perfection.

The MG A 2Z: A Big, Bold Vision

Now, Mike’s taking on his biggest project yet: a 1956 MGA Coupe he calls the "MG A 2Z." This isn’t just a restoration—it’s a complete reimagining. The car will pair its classic British chassis with a Nissan inline-6 engine from a 240Z. Mike describes the original MGA as “fun at speed,” but getting to that speed took longer than he liked. By combining the MGA’s timeless design with the power of the Nissan engine, he hopes to create a car that’s fast, fun, and still streetable—a true gentleman’s sports car.

Mike’s background as a sculptor is also shaping this project. He’s always admired the curves of the Jaguar E-Type Mk1, and he’s drawing inspiration from classic Ferraris and Maseratis, too. The MG A 2Z will be more than a car; it will be a rolling piece of art. To bring his vision to life, Mike will need to learn new skills like sheet metal work and using an English wheel. It’s a challenge he’s excited to take on.

A Shoutout to M.A.R.S.

Mike is quick to credit the Michigan Automotive Relic Society (M.A.R.S.) for their support and camaraderie throughout his journey. This grassroots group is made up of car lovers who share a passion for fixing up European sports cars and getting them on the road. They organize everything from massive rallies to casual drives and encourage anyone to dive into car restoration, no matter how daunting it may seem.

“They’re supportive, fun-loving, and drive these cars practically year-round,” Mike says. “Their lives are better and more interesting for it. If you’re a gearhead or love the sinuous sculpture of uncluttered design, check out M.A.R.S. It’s not all skinned knuckles and empty wallets—you can do this too!” 

What’s Next?

Mike’s journey with the MG A 2Z is just getting started, and Spanners is there to capture it all. This project isn’t just about building a car—it’s about pushing boundaries, learning new things, and celebrating the love of cars in all its forms. Whether you’re a car enthusiast, an artist, or just someone who appreciates a good story, Mike’s journey is sure to inspire.

Stay tuned for more updates on this incredible project. With his creativity, passion, and determination, there’s no doubt Mike’s MG A 2Z will be something truly special.

Photos provided by Micheal Pixley & Jon Zomer