The Maxpoint Enermax CS-56881BFS-OY exemplifies the recent trend toward premodded cases that look unique right off the shelf. Its retro styling, high-gloss automotive finish (available in four distinctive colors), heavy-duty steel innards, and electroplated chrome trim give it the air of a meticulously restored classic car. Its external 5.25-inch bays are concealed behind a set of painted metal louvers that slide down like the cover of a roll-top desk, and the case includes sound-activated internal lighting and a large, UV-sensitive window with a center-mounted LED fan.

Unfortunately, the case isn't quite as innovative under the hood. It does provide room for four fans, but its admittedly hefty 400-watt PowerUp power supply isn't in a class with better Enermax units. None of its eight drive bays can be swiveled or removed, and one of its seven expansion slots is consumed by a lighting switch. The case also ships without documentation (Enermax was preparing a downloadable manual at review time), but our biggest disappointment is the discovery that the gorgeous paint job can be chipped, much like the finish of a new car.

If you plan to take the CS-56881BFS-OY on the road, you may soon find yourself in an automotive shop matching bottles of touch-up paint.