Elite Laser 917: A Remarkable Kit Car, Gone Too Soon

Gone Too Soon - The world of automotive innovation is filled with fascinating creations, many of which remain unknown to the wider public. Among these hidden gems is the Elite Laser 917, a kit car that left its mark in the 1970s and 1980s. Born from a blend of creative engineering and a love for racing-inspired designs, the Laser 917 stands as a tribute to a bygone era of automotive ingenuity. Its unique origins, captivating design, and notable performance have cemented its place as a memorable piece of car history.

The Laser 917, pictured here in the classic Gulf Oil livery restored by Gotham Garage, was the brainchild of Gary Knapp's Elite Enterprises, inspired by the legendary Porsche 917, a car synonymous with Le Mans dominance. (Picture from: HotCars)

The Elite Laser 917 was the brainchild of Elite Enterprises Inc., a small automotive company founded in November 1969 by Gerald “Jerry” Knapp in Cokato, Minnesota. As a relatively small player in the industry, Elite Enterprises focused on creating specialty vehicles that stood out from the mainstream market. The Laser 917, launched in 1972, was the company’s standout creation, designed to pay homage to the legendary Porsche 917, a car synonymous with dominance at Le Mans. 

The 1969 Porsche 917 K Long Tail coupé, specifically the 917-001 chassis, celebrated as one of the most successful Porsche race cars ever made for its dominance at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in the late 1960s, served as the inspiration for the Elite Laser 917. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)

However, this was not a replica but a reimagined version with a unique charm of its own. It was a car that could be built by enthusiasts, combining the passion for racing aesthetics with the hands-on satisfaction of constructing a vehicle. The Laser 917's exterior was nothing short of a head-turner. Designed by Harry Bradley, a renowned transportation designer and instructor at the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California, the car showcased a sleek, curvaceous body. Its low stance and wide proportions gave it an aggressive look, while the addition of gull-wing doors added a dramatic flair. 

The Elite Laser 917, designed by renowned transportation designer Harry Bradley, featured a sleek, curvaceous body that made it a true head-turner. (Picture from: HotCars)

The Laser 917 was intended to fit on the chassis of a VW Beetle or a Karmann Ghia, making it accessible to hobbyists with these platforms. The design, while clearly inspired by the Porsche 917, was more of an artistic reinterpretation, making it a bold yet approachable project for car enthusiasts.

The Elite Laser 917, shown here in an image from a vintage advertisement by Elite Enterprises, highlights the car’s unique design and its appeal to automotive enthusiasts during its time. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)

Inside, the Laser 917 continued to impress with thoughtful features that prioritized both aesthetics and functionality. The kit included adjustable fiberglass bucket seats, a range of vinyl upholstery options, and a dashboard equipped with VDO gauges. These elements combined to create an interior that felt sporty yet practical. 

The Elite Laser 917 gained fame with its cinematic appearance in the 1977 film Herbie Goes to Monte Carlo. (Picture from: IMCDB.org)

While not luxurious, the cabin reflected the car's purpose: to deliver an exciting driving experience while staying true to its DIY roots. Performance was a key focus of the Laser 917, though it was heavily influenced by the donor car's mechanicals. Using the chassis of a VW Beetle or Karmann Ghia meant that the Laser 917 inherited the engine and drivetrain from these vehicles. 

The Elite Laser 917 replica featured in the 1977 film Herbie Goes to Monte Carlo. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)

This setup kept the car lightweight and nimble, while its aerodynamic body added an extra edge. The assembly process required some modifications to the Beetle’s floor, but Elite Enterprises provided a comprehensive builder’s manual with over 500 diagrams to guide buyers. The company even claimed that the car could be completed in just 100 hours—a bold assertion given the intricacies of the build.

The Elite Laser 917, an excellent example of this iconic kit car, is proudly owned by Facebook user Vic Sn, showcasing its enduring appeal among collectors. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)

Over the years, the Laser 917 gained a degree of fame, even making a cinematic appearance in the 1977 film Herbie Goes to Monte Carlo. In the movie, it was portrayed as the race car of German competitor Bruno Von Stickle, played by Eric Braeden. Painted in the colors of the German flag and sporting the number 17, the Laser 917 became an iconic part of the film, further solidifying its place in pop culture.

The Elite Laser 917, featuring a meticulously maintained interior, is proudly owned by Facebook user Vic Sn, reflecting the car's unique charm and craftsmanship. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)

However, challenges loomed on the horizon. A legal dispute with Chrysler over the use of the "Laser" name forced Elite Enterprises into negotiations, resulting in a licensing agreement. While the company navigated this obstacle, the untimely death of founder Jerry Knapp in the mid-1980s dealt a devastating blow. Though a successor company, Quint Enterprises, attempted to carry the torch, production eventually ceased in 1991. By the end of its run, only 679 units had been built—a modest number by industry standards, yet impressive for a specialty kit car.

The story of the Elite Laser 917 is one of boundless creativity and ambition that burned brightly before fading too soon. For those who built, owned, or simply admired the car, it remains a symbol of what can be achieved with vision and determination. Though its time in the spotlight was brief, the Laser 917 continues to inspire as a reminder of the artistry and passion that define the world of niche automotive creations. Its legacy lives on, not only in garages and private collections but also in the hearts of those who still dream of the road less traveled. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | RARECOMPONTCARS | HOTCARS | AUTOWEEK | COKATOMUSEUM | FIBERCLASSICS.ORG | IMCDB.ORG ]

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