well, I don't have any ideas for you. So here is a bump. I know my son will be turning 3 also and LOVES the movie cars!! Best of luck.
Here is a link to FamilyFun.com where they make a Jeep cake - perhaps you could modify it to look like Mater?
http://jas.familyfun.go.com/recipefinder/display?id=50171
Yes I cut it and stacked it and then the sides of the back were made using fondant...I used thick enough fondant where it did not have to dry first. The stuff in the back was tricky but I didn't try to copy it exactly...I formed some fondant on a skewer for the, um, you know that thing that holds the hook, and used black licorice ropes for all the rope.
I airbrushed the sides but you could probably do it with a paintbrush as well.
Don't forget to share a pix when you are done!
Quote by @%username% on %date%
%body%