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Showing posts with label Sportscar. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Sportscar. Show all posts

Monday, May 5, 2025

BMW M1 Procar: The Supercar BMW Built for Formula One Glory

Racing Rarity - For fans of automotive history, the late 1970s marked an era of bold experimentation and engineering leaps across Europe’s top performance car makers. Ferrari had their flat-12s, Porsche pushed turbocharged innovation, and BMWlong respected for its touring carssought to break into the supercar elite with a machine unlike any it had built before. The result was the BMW M1 Procar, a rare and compelling fusion of art, racing pedigree, and groundbreaking design that still turns heads nearly five decades later.
The BMW M1 Procar is a rare and compelling fusion of art, racing pedigree, and groundbreaking design that still turns heads nearly five decades later. (Picture from: BMW-M)
Born out of necessity and ambition, the M1’s story is one of high aspirations and complex collaboration. As BMW Motorsport looked to move past the dominance of its 3.0 CSL in the racing world, the company made a strategic decision: leave behind the familiar front-engine layout and embrace the mid-engine architecture favored by the world’s leading performance marques.
The vision for the BMW M1 Procar was clear—BMW needed something radical in both performance and image, with design by Italian maestro Giorgetto Giugiaro and initial manufacturing handled by Lamborghini. (Picture from: BMW-M)
The vision was clear—BMW needed something radical, both in performance and in image. To bring that vision to life, BMW assembled a dream team. Italian designer Giorgetto Giugiaro, already a legend for his work on the Lotus Esprit and DeLorean DMC-12, was tasked with shaping the M1’s low-slung, aggressive silhouette.
The BMW M1 Procar featured a low-slung, aggressive silhouette and boasted lightweight fiberglass bodywork over a steel space frame. (Picture from: BMW-M)
For the engineering and construction phase, BMW turned to Lamborghini, who at the time was celebrated for its mid-engine experience with models like the Miura and Countach. However, the collaboration wasn’t without hiccups. Financial troubles at Lamborghini caused delays and forced BMW to eventually shift production to other suppliers, but the foundation of the car had been laid.
The BMW M1 Procar was powered by a mid-mounted 3.5-liter inline-six engine producing a staggering 470 horsepower with a redline nearing 9,000 rpm, complemented by razor-sharp steering and a five-speed manual transmission that delivered power to the rear wheels with unapologetic brutality. (Picture from: Retromania4ever on X)
With a mid-mounted 3.5-liter inline-six engine producing a staggering 470 horsepower and a redline brushing 9,000 rpm, the M1 Procar was built to dominate the track. It boasted lightweight fiberglass bodywork over a steel space frame, razor-sharp steering, and a five-speed manual transmission that put power to the rear wheels with unapologetic brutality. It sprinted from 0 to 60 mph in just about 4.4 seconds and could reach a top speed nearing 192 mph—a jaw-dropping figure for the era.
The rear section of the BMW M1 Procar was engineered not only for striking aesthetics but also to enhance aerodynamic performance, featuring elements such as a massive rear spoiler that provided increased downforce and improved stability at high speeds. (Picture from: BMW-M)
Yet BMW faced an unexpected challenge: in order to compete in the Group 4 racing class, at least 400 road-going units of the BMW M1 had to be produced for homologation. With the production setbacks, this requirement was slow to meet, risking the M1’s racing future. Rather than let the car’s potential waste away, BMW created their own seriesthe Procar Championship. Slotted as a support series for Formula One weekends, Procar races saw legendary F1 drivers like Niki Lauda and Nelson Piquet battle it out in identically prepared M1s. It was thrilling, dramatic, and ultimately cemented the M1 Procar as a motorsport icon.
The 1979 BMW M1 Procar received a unique personal touch from Andy Warhol, who painted directly onto the car to capture his vision of speed and motion in every brushstroke. (Picture from: Supercarsnet)
Among the most legendary examples of this model is the M1 Procar painted by Andy Warhol in 1979. Unlike other BMW Art Cars, which were usually painted on scale models and transferred to full-size versions by technicians, Warhol took a more personal approachhe painted directly onto the car, capturing his vision of speed and motion in every brushstroke
The 1979 BMW M1 Procar painted by Andy Warhol competed in the 24 Hours of Le Mans and finished sixth overall—an impressive feat for a newcomer. (Picture from: Supercarsnet)
That very car raced at the 24 Hours of Le Mans and finished sixth overall, a remarkable result for a newcomer. Today, it remains part of BMW’s private collection, and despite numerous high-value offers, the company has never entertained selling it.
The 1979 BMW M1 Procar was originally destined for competition under the ownership of Vasek Polak, but regulatory changes rendered it ineligible before it could ever debut. (Picture from: MouseMotors)
Another fascinating piece of this story lies with one specific M1 Procar completed by BMW in May of 1979, originally destined for competition under the ownership of Vasek Polak. Unfortunately, regulatory changes made it ineligible before it could properly debut. The car remained preserved for a decade before finding a new owner in 1989
This 1979 BMW M1 Procar, once owned by Vasek Polak, is believed to be the only remaining example that never saw active racing use—making it a true unicorn among an already rare breed. (Picture from: MouseMotors)
Meticulously maintained, this particular M1 is believed to be the only remaining example that never saw active racing use, making it a unicorn among an already rare breed. In 2021, it changed hands once more and continues to be carefully preserved and enjoyed during private track events. | qw1qD03YbWw |
From its exotic Italian design roots and German engineering excellence to its brief but brilliant racing career and crossover into the art world, the BMW M1 Procar is more than just a car—it’s a symbol of a brand pushing its boundaries at full throttle. In a time when supercars were still finding their identity, the M1 stood out as a rebellious masterpiece. Today, it remains a treasured reminder of when passion, innovation, and just the right amount of risk collided on the racetrack. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | BMW-M | BMW-M1-CLUB | SUPERCARS.NET | RMSOTHEBYS | SPORTSCARMARKET | GQ-MAGAZINE | MOUSEMOTORS | RETROMANIA4EVER ON X ]
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Sunday, May 4, 2025

Lamborghini MIURA SVR: The One and Only Masterpiece

Singular Legend - When talking about legendary supercars that have shaped the future of automotive design, few names shine brighter than Lamborghini. The brand’s relentless pursuit of innovation and performance has led to some of the most breathtaking creations the world has ever seen. One of the most iconic among them is the Lamborghini Miura, a car that not only redefined the supercar category but also paved the way for the mid-engined, two-seater sports car layout that dominates today’s performance market.
The Lamborghini Miura SVR, a car so unique that only a single unit was ever produced. (Picture from: iNews.id)

Saturday, May 3, 2025

George Barris' 1958 Corvette: A Masterpiece of Custom Design

Barris' Vision - As car enthusiasts, we were immediately captivated when we first saw the aqua blue Corvette recently featured in Myron Vernis' status on X (formerly Twitter). At first glance, it might appear to be a modified version of the experimental 1958 Corvette XP-700 prototype—an iconic car that was never fully produced. However, a closer inspection reveals that this vehicle is much more than just a tribute or replica; it's a one-of-a-kind creation with its own fascinating history, far removed from the original XP-700 design.
This aqua blue Corvette was crafted by one of the leading customizers of the time, George Barris, using a 1958 production model inspired by the experimental 1958 Corvette XP-700 prototype. (Picture from: Myron Vernis's Status on X)
This particular aqua blue Corvette is based on a 1958 production model but underwent a remarkable transformation in the mid-1960s, years after the XP-700 prototype had been dismantled and reimagined as the Corvette Mako Shark I. The customization of this car was commissioned by Accessories International, a California-based company known for its automotive accessories, such as decorative moldings, chrome engine parts, and custom air filter housings. The company acquired a second-hand 1958 Corvette and saw an opportunity to turn it into a display of their products with the help of one of the leading customizers of the time: George Barris.
The customization of this car was commissioned by Accessories International, a California-based company known for its automotive accessories. (Picture from: IDAOffice)
Barris, the founder of Barris Kustoms, was a prominent figure in the world of car customization, known for his ability to transform ordinary vehicles into extraordinary works of art. While his name is most closely associated with the famous Batmobile and other Hollywood car creations, Barris’s work extended far beyond the entertainment industry. His influence in the world of automotive design, especially in the realm of custom vehicles, was immense. And this particular aqua blue Corvette stands as a testament to his artistic vision.
This is the original XP-700 prototype, showcasing a distinct design that sets it apart with the Barris's aqua blue custom Corvette. (Picture from: IDAOffice)
The customization of this Corvette is particularly interesting because it was influenced by the design of the XP-700 prototype, which Barris was familiar with. The XP-700, though never put into production, was an experimental Corvette that had a striking, futuristic design—something that intrigued Barris. For this project, Barris recreated the front end of the car from memory, capturing the distinct oval radiator air intake that was a defining feature of the XP-700. However, he left out certain non-functional elements like the side “gills,” which were more about decoration than performance.
For this project, George Barris recreated the front end of the car from memory, capturing the distinct oval radiator air intake that was a defining feature of the XP-700. (Picture from: VoloMuseum)
Barris didn’t stop at the front end; the rear of the car was also altered to give it a more dynamic and futuristic look. The design elements incorporated here mirrored features that would later be seen on the 1961 and 1962 production Corvettes. But Barris added his own unique twist: small fins at the rear, a feature that had never been seen on a Corvette before. This subtle modification added a touch of originality to the car, making it stand out even more in a world where customization was all about making a bold statement.
The aqua blue Corvette boasts a wooden-rimmed steering wheel and a driver-focused dashboard with well-placed gauges, elevating the driving experience. (Picture from: VoloMuseum)
The car’s modifications were not limited to its bodywork. Barris used various parts from Accessories International to elevate the vehicle's overall aesthetic. For example, the gleaming chrome accents in the engine compartment were not just for show—they were functional, high-quality components that demonstrated the partnership between Barris and the accessories company. Even the steering wheel was customized, sporting a wooden rim—a stark departure from the standard steering wheel on production Corvettes. This small but important touch added a sense of luxury and sophistication to the car’s interior, further showcasing the attention to detail that Barris brought to every project.
This aqua blue Corvette, originally powered by a 283, was upgraded with a 1964 Corvette 327-340 hp engine and enhanced with gleaming chrome accents in the engine bay. (Picture from: VoloMuseum)
Additionally, the transmission lever proudly bore the word “HURST,” referencing a well-known brand that supplied racing equipment. This was a nod to the car’s performance capabilities, adding an element of racing culture to the custom design. Another interesting touch was the handrail in front of the passenger seat, often referred to as a “sissy bar.” While the name might sound unusual, it was a playful addition, adding character to the car and contributing to its unique identity.
The aqua blue Corvette showcases George Barris's unique touch with rear fins, a feature never before seen on a Corvette. (Picture from: VoloMuseum)
What makes this aqua blue Corvette particularly fascinating is how it combines various elements from different sources—some inspired by the XP-700 prototype, others by the later Corvette models—and merges them into a cohesive design that was ahead of its time. The vehicle doesn’t just pay homage to its predecessors; it pushes the boundaries of what a Corvette could look like, blending style, function, and performance in a way that was truly innovative for the 1960s.
The aqua blue Corvette fascinates with its blend of XP-700 prototype elements and later Corvette features, merged into a forward-thinking design. (Picture from: IDAOffice)
While the aqua blue Corvette was ultimately a product of its era, its design feels timeless. The creative work that went into its transformation demonstrates the skill and vision of George Barris, who not only understood the technical aspects of car customization but also had a deep understanding of aesthetics. This Corvette wasn’t just about improving upon an existing model; it was about creating something new, something that stood out in a world where cars were becoming more standardized. Although no video exists for the car discussed above, here’s one featuring the 1963 George Barris Kustom Asteroid Corvette.
Though this car is no longer a regular sight on the streets, its legacy lives on as an example of what happens when creativity and automotive craftsmanship collide. The aqua blue Corvette is a true reflection of the boldness and imagination that defined an era of automotive design. It serves as a reminder that a car is not just a means of transportation—it’s an opportunity for artistic expression, a canvas for customization, and a statement of individuality. This unique vehicle, with its carefully crafted modifications, captures the spirit of automotive innovation and stands as a lasting tribute to the custom car culture that George Barris helped shape. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MYRON VERNIS ON X | IDAOFFICE | CARSWP | VOLOMUSEUM ]
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Ferrari 275 P2 Speciale: A Rare Icon’s Path to Recognition

Heritage Reclaimed - In the golden age of motorsports during the 1960s, the sound of roaring engines and the scent of burning rubber were unmistakably linked to Ferrari. The Italian marque dominated world racing circuits with undeniable flair, and it wasn’t just their wins that turned heads—it was the passion and innovation behind each car. From that era of relentless experimentation and bold design came one particularly fascinating chapter: the birth of the Ferrari 275 P2 Speciale, a unique fusion of American vision, Italian craftsmanship, and cinematic inspiration.
1968 Ferrari 275 P2 Speciale designed by Michelotti and was built on the chassis of the 1963 275 P2 race car. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)
It all began with the groundbreaking Ferrari 250 P, a car that marked Ferrari’s daring shift to mid-engine architecture for its 12-cylinder racing machines. Debuting in 1963, the 250 P didn't take long to make an impression, clinching victories at Sebring, Le Mans, and Nürburgring. This success laid the foundation for its spiritual successor, the Ferrari 275 P2, which carried the legacy forward with its own share of triumphs. Yet from the bones of these champions, another creation would rise—one that stood apart from Ferrari’s usual track-bred machines.
1968 Ferrari 275 P2 Speciale designed by Michelotti based off Bob Peak's sketches on the initiative of Coco Chinetti Jr. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)
The story of the Ferrari 275 P2 Speciale began with a man named Luigi 'Coco' Chinetti Jr., the son of famed Ferrari importer and ex-racer Luigi Chinetti Sr., who was a longtime associate of Enzo Ferrari. Chinetti Jr. envisioned something different—a Ferrari not only engineered for performance but designed to dazzle American tastes with futuristic elegance. In an era where television and pop culture were shaping consumer dreams, he saw potential in combining racing pedigree with cinematic flair. To bring this vision to life, he reached out to his friend, Robert Peak, a celebrated illustrator known for his iconic movie posters
The AMT Piranha appeared in several episodes of the 1960s TV series The Man from U.N.C.L.E., serving as the inspiration for the Ferrari 275 P2 Speciale. (Picture from: Cars4Starters)
Inspired by the sleek AMT Piranha Spy Car from the hit TV show The Man from U.N.C.L.E., Peak drafted the concept of a car that would blend fantasy and performance. With a potential buyer already interested—a young woman enamored by futuristic designsChinetti Jr. was ready to turn sketches into steel. He and Peak traveled to Milan to pitch the idea to esteemed designer Giovanni Michelotti. But things didn’t go as planned. Michelotti initially refused the project, leaving Chinetti Jr. deeply disappointed. (Please note that the following video features the Ferrari 275 P2, not the Ferrari 275 P2 Speciale.)
Refusing to give up, Chinetti Jr. turned to the one person with enough influence to shift the tide—Enzo Ferrari himself. Through his father’s connections, Chinetti Jr. laid out the vision and the commercial potential of the project. Enzo, ever the patron of bold ideas, lent his support. With Ferrari’s backing, Michelotti agreed to design and build the car, using a damaged 1963 Ferrari 275 P2 (chassis #0812) as the donor. The car had suffered a crash and fire in 1965 but had already made a name for itself with appearances at Le Mans, Nürburgring, and Sebring.
1968 Ferrari 275 P2 Speciale designed by Michelotti was inspired by the design of the AMT Piranha Spy Car. (Picture from: Allcarindex)
From there, a dramatic transformation took place. The chassis was restored, a new engine was installed, and Michelotti sculpted an entirely new body that oozed style and sophistication. Gone were the raw, aggressive lines of a pure race car—replaced instead by a smooth, curvaceous design reminiscent of a high-end grand tourer. Its interior followed suit, offering comfort without compromising Ferrari’s performance DNA. One of its most striking features was a pair of gullwing-style doors, adding to its almost sci-fi appeal.
The authenticity of the Ferrari 275 P2 Speciale was doubted so that Coco Chinetty Jr. was sued in court by Ferrari in 1999. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)
Beneath the beauty beat the heart of a thoroughbred: a 4.0-liter V12 engine capable of generating 410 horsepower at 8,000 rpm, launching the car to a theoretical top speed of 300 kilometers per hour. This was no mere showpiece—it was a machine that could run with the best of them, with the added charisma of Hollywood imagination.

Only one such car was built at the time, which is part of what makes the Ferrari 275 P2 Speciale so revered today. It stood as a bold concepta cross-continental collaboration that fused American creativity, Italian engineering, and cinematic glamour into one unforgettable automobile.
1968 Ferrari 275 P2 Speciale designed by Michelotti is powered by a 4-liter V12 engine capable of producing up to 410 hp at 8,000 rpm, theoretically can make the car accelarates up to 300 kph. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)
Years later, in 1999, the story of this rare creation took another twist. Luigi Chinetti Jr. oversaw the reconstruction of two additional units bearing chassis numbers #0812 and #0814, entrusted to Marco Baldi of Protauto in Italy. However, these efforts sparked controversy as Ferrari themselves questioned the authenticity of the builds, leading to a legal battle

After a lengthy three-year court process, the verdict came in favor of Chinetti Jr., and the cars were legally recognized as genuine Ferrari vehicles. Eventually, even a third car (chassis #0818) received official recognition from Ferrari, bringing the count of authentic 275 P2 Speciale models to three.
Though born from a single visionary spark and a passion project far outside Ferrari’s usual racing pursuits, the 275 P2 Speciale holds its own as one of the most distinctive concepts ever associated with the Prancing Horse. It serves as a vivid reminder that sometimes, the most memorable legends aren’t just born on the racetrack—but in the dreams of those bold enough to ask, “What if?” *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | FERRARI | WIKIPEDIA | CARSTYLING.RU | CARROZZIERI-ITALIANI | FACEBOOK | ALLCARINDEX | COACHBUILD | ROSSOAUTOMOBILI | ZH.WHEELSAGE.ORG | CLASSICDRIVERS | C-WE | CARS4STARERS ]
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Friday, May 2, 2025

Miura: The Most Valuable and Prettiest Raging Bull Sports Car Ever

Most Valuable ONES - Perhaps some of you may not be as familiar with the classic Lamborghini Miura as you are with newer models like the Huracán, Aventador, or Gallardo. Yet, the Lamborghini Miura can be hailed as the trailblazer for the stunning sports cars bearing the iconic Raging Bull emblem. Its debut on the public stage occurred at the 1966 Geneva Motor Show, though the chassis had already made its presence known in 1965. What's the captivating tale behind this beauty? Let's dive into the narrative.
1966 Lamborghini P400 Prototipo. (Picture from: Supercars.net)
The inception of Automobili Lamborghini in Sant'Agata Bolognese boasts a unique origin story. It's widely recounted that it all began when Ferruccio Lamborghini expressed dissatisfaction with the clutch of his Ferrari 250 GTE, leading to a grievance lodged with Enzo Ferrari himself. As time unfurled, in 1963, Ferruccio Lamborghini ventured into the realm of automobile manufacturing, birthing his own car company. Success swiftly followed with the production of the 350 GT and 400 GT coupes in 1964, marking the inception of this Italian company's journey towards becoming a renowned automaker.
The P400 lightweight chassis made of 1965, ready to house a 3.9-liter V12 engine. (Picture from: Suara)
In 1965, as part of their relentless pursuit of innovation, Lamborghini unveiled a new model. The design and engineering team, all in their late twenties, spearheaded this venture. Chief engineer Gian Paolo Dallara was brimming with enthusiasm to create an innovative vehicle that would cement Lamborghini's legacy in the competitive world of automotive manufacturing. Initially known as project P400, which translates to "4-liter rear-drive engine" in Italian, this car was built on a robust yet lightweight chassis, ready to house a 3.9-liter V12 engine, identical to the one employed in the Lamborghini 400 GT.
1968 Lamborhini Miura P400. (Picture from: MotorTrend)
The new car necessitated a mid-mounted engine with a low-slung profile, graced by the visionary styling of Bertone's Marcello Gandini. The culmination of their efforts resulted in the Lamborghini Miura, unveiled in all its glory at the 1966 Geneva Motor Show. It boasted a 350-horsepower 4.0-liter V12 engine, designed by Giotto Bizzarrini and ingeniously mounted transversely. The front and rear decks, crafted from aluminum, opened with a clamshell-like grace.
Interior view of  Lamborghini Miura P400. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)
Inside, steeply reclined seats nestled behind a stylish two-pod instrument panel adorned with additional gauges in the center stack. Thus, the Miura P400 came into existence. The journey continued with the Miura P400S in 1968, enhancing interior quality, revamping the rear suspension, and boosting horsepower by 20, bringing the total to 370 horses.
1969 Lamborhini Miura P400S. (Picture from: Suara)
In 1971, the Miura P400SV made its entrance, initially as a special order car. This edition featured widened rear fenders to accommodate bulkier 15-inch rims and tires, redesigned taillights, a fresh nose design, and a power bump to 385 horsepower. The broader rear track, along with structural chassis reinforcement, rendered the Miura SV exceptionally capable, boasting a 0-60 mph time of 5.8 seconds and a top speed of around 180 mph – bona fide supercar figures of its era. The Miura's production run came to a close in 1973, making way for the radical new Countach, which reached its final form the following year.
1971 Lamborghini Miura P400SV. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)
Although Ferruccio Lamborghini never formalized plans to race the Miura, the renowned test driver Bob Wallace played a pivotal role in developing the Miura P400 Jota, a prototype designed to meet FIA motorsport regulations. The Jota featured an all-aluminum chassis and body for significant weight savings, while the V12 engine was tuned to produce over 400 horsepower at nearly 9,000 rpm. Notable body enhancements included a front spoiler, fixed headlights with fairings, and substantial suspension modifications.
1970 Lamborghini Miura P400 Jota built based of Miura's chassis #5084. (Picture from: SupercarNostalgia)
While there were no intentions to enter this vehicle into competition, word quickly spread about this factory-made race car. Six Lamborghini enthusiasts ordered cars in the spirit of the Jota, known as the Miura SV/J, directly from the factory. It's worth noting that Lamborghini later converted several more Miuras into SV/J specifications. Additionally, one prototype of the Miura P400 Roadster, Bertone's concept car, still exists today. Hence, it was unsurprising when a special Lamborghini model resurfaced as a tribute to the Miura in 2016. 
1972 Lamborghini Miura P400 SV/J. (Picture from: UltimateCarPage)
In terms of price, the most expensive Lamborghini Miura, the final unit produced in 1971, can command around 2.5 million US dollars or approximately Rp. 36.25 billion (as of 2018). In 2022, a British insurance company, Confused, named the venerable Lamborghini Miura sports car as the most valuable classic car, surpassing legendary classics like the Ferrari F40, Ferrari 250 GTO, and others.
1968 Lamborhini Miura P400 Roadster. (Picture from: DrivingLine)
Confused utilized a unique calculation method for this determination, considering around 2,000 classic cars that have left an indelible mark on the global automotive industry. The assessment spanned from 2019 to 2022, examining factors such as production numbers, car prices in May 2019, current car prices, and Google search volumes for car names.
From this comprehensive assessment, the Lamborghini Miura was declared the most valuable classic car, securing the top spot in the ranking. The Ferrari F40, the last car personally approved by Enzo Ferrari, narrowly trailed behind the Miura. The Lamborghini Miura's enduring allure stems from its revolutionary design and performance, making it an everlasting symbol of Italian automotive prowess. *** [EKA [19092023] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | LAMBORGHINI | SUPERCARS.NET | MOTORTREND | STUFF ]
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Fiberfab Jamaican: A Unique Road-Legal Racer

Fiberglass Marvel - Few things ignite passion like the roar of an engine and the promise of open roads, especially when the car in question is a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. The Fiberfab Jamaican is a perfect example of this—a car that started life as a humble 1960 Austin-Healey 3000 before transforming into a head-turning racing legend with a sleek fiberglass body and a story as thrilling as the roads it conquered. It’s a tale of creativity, speed, and unexpected twists that shaped this iconic vehicle’s legacy.
The Fiberfab Jamaican, designed by Chris and Russell Beebe, was released in 1968 as a stylish and innovative fiberglass body kit for classic sports cars. (Picture from: Silodrome)
This remarkable car underwent a bold transformation in the late 1960s when it was fitted with the Fiberfab Jamaican body, a lightweight fiberglass design that redefined its appearance and performance. Once converted into a race car, it carved out a name for itself on the track, racking up wins and achieving an impressive 82 mph lap average at Mallory Park. Today, it’s a shining example of how ingenuity and vision can take a classic car to new heights.
Released in 1968, the Fiberfab Jamaican was often compared to the Lamborghini Miura, though Fiberfab denied any design connection. (Picture from: Silodrome)
The Fiberfab Jamaican was the brainchild of Fiberfab, a company founded in 1964 by Warren “Bud” Goodwin and John Hebler. Initially focused on performance parts and body kits for cars from brands like Chevrolet, Ford, and Jaguar, the company soon expanded into creating fiberglass body kits. The Jamaican, released in 1968, was a standout model that offered a futuristic aesthetic inspired by some of the most cutting-edge designs of the era. It could be adapted to a range of chassis, including the Triumph TR3, MGA, and the Austin-Healey 100 or 3000, making it an attractive option for car enthusiasts seeking something unique.
This Fiberfab Jamaican Austin-Healey’s interior is minimalist yet relatively well-equipped, especially by the standards of the kit car world. (Picture from: Silodrome)
Beyond its eye-catching design, the Jamaican delivered improved performance thanks to its lighter body, which reduced the overall weight of the car. This made it a favorite among racers and collectors alike. The Jamaican II, a later version, introduced a custom chassis capable of housing a powerful V8 engine, further cementing its reputation as a performance powerhouse.
This Fiberfab Jamaican, based on the Austin-Healey 3000, is powered by a 3.0-liter inline-six engine with around 130 hp. (Picture from: Silodrome)
However, the history of Fiberfab is as dramatic as the cars it produced. Warren Goodwin, one of the company’s founders, faced legal troubles in 1967 when he was arrested for the shooting death of his wife, Jamaica Karen Goodwin, who also held a role in the company. Convicted of voluntary manslaughter, Goodwin served a one-year sentence but passed away in prison from a heart attack in 1968. Despite this dark chapter, Fiberfab persisted under new management, continuing operations until its eventual closure in 1994. A brief revival in 2003 failed to produce new vehicles, leaving the company’s status uncertain today.
The Fiberfab Jamaican remains a beloved symbol of creativity, speed, and timeless design. Its unique blend of classic engineering and daring innovation captures the imagination of car enthusiasts worldwide. Every curve and detail tells a story of ambition and resilience, making it more than just a car—it’s a celebration of the enduring spirit of automotive artistry. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | FIBERFAB | SIIODROME | WIKIPEDIA | RARECARNETWORK ]
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