Mudguards are only the beginning. A car modified like that must be inspected by an automotive engineer and comply with the same requirements as any other car car built in 2017. That includes collapsible steering column. at least 2 speed fan on the heater/ demister, windscreen washers, seat belts etc etc. A Hot Rod is considered a new car and so must comply with current standards. Any who have such cars on the road without engineering certification are running a HUGE risk. If they are in a collision, the driver is likely to be sued. He wouldn't have a leg to stand on and the penalties could be huge if someone is injured in either car.
I can think of only one similar car I see around here and he went through the certification process. BTW, it has mudguards.
Whew,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,my hair hurts after reading all this. Here I thought I was saving a really nice 27 body from the rat rodders to cut up only to find out I wont be moving to Australia. Go figure. Guess I will go turn myself in. By the way GSCOV, that roadster looks great. And it can always be put back the way it was, if any body wanted to.