Rare ONES - The history of the Ford Mustang is filled with many intriguing chapters, and one of the most unexpected involves a partnership that few would have predicted: Ford and McLaren. While McLaren is typically associated with British supercars, such as the iconic McLaren F1, it also had a brief yet significant collaboration with Ford in the 1980s. This partnership resulted in a highly unique version of the Mustang, demonstrating just how versatile and surprising the automotive world can be.
The Ford M81 McLaren Mustang was the result of a collaboration between Ford’s Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) and McLaren, creating a truly unique Mustang. (Picture from: AmCarGuide)
In the late 1970s and early 1980s, Ford was eager to revitalize the Mustang after the disappointing Mustang II. New emissions regulations were challenging the performance of many cars, and Ford needed a new way to capture attention. The solution? A collaboration with McLaren that would lead to the creation of a very special Mustang.
The Ford M81 McLaren Mustang was clearly a Fox Body however it benefitted from a serious styling revamp both inside and out, and it had a much more powerful engine under the hood. (Picture from: BlackXperience)
This wasn’t just any Mustang, though—it was designed to show off McLaren’s hand-built engine expertise alongside Ford’s robust aftermarket and motorsport parts catalog. The result was the Ford M81 McLaren Mustang, a car that would combine elements of both brands into a rare and captivating package.
The Ford M81 McLaren Mustang's exterior was striking, sporting a boxy, angular shape that reflected the design trends of the Malaise era. (Picture from: Silodrome)
McLaren, primarily known for building high-performance cars and racing machines, may seem like an odd choice to work with Ford on a Mustang. But their expertise in engineering and performance was what Ford needed to create something unique. The partnership wasn’t McLaren’s first foray into collaborations, as they had also worked with Mercedes-Benz to produce the legendary SLR series. Yet long before that, McLaren’s focus shifted to Ford, leading to the creation of the M81McLaren Mustang. The car’s aim was simple: to boost interest in a Mustang that wasn’t powered by the typical V8 engine but instead by a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder.
The most noticeable styling change is the addition of wide IMSA-style fenders that gave the car a purposeful look and allowed the fitment of wider wheels and rubber. (Picture from: Silodrome)
Released in 1980, this special edition M81McLaren Mustang was built to highlight not only performance but also bold design. The exterior was striking, sporting a boxy, angular shape that reflected the design trends of the Malaise era. Its Bittersweet Orange color was particularly eye-catching, with seven out of the ten units produced being painted in this vibrant shade. But it wasn’t just about the looks—the car’s bodywork had been significantly upgraded to give it a more aggressive stance, marking it as something far different from the standard Mustangs of the time.
The interior of the Ford M81 McLaren Mustang was also upgraded, with Recaro seats, a Racemark steering wheel, a bolt-in roll bar, and Stewart-Warner instrument gauges. (Picture from: Silodrome)
Inside, the Ford M81McLaren Mustang featured a variety of enhancements to match its unique exterior. Recaro seats were a key addition, providing drivers with both comfort and support. A Racemark steering wheel, Stewart-Warner gauges, and a bolt-in roll bar were all part of the package, emphasizing the car’s sporty nature. These interior upgrades gave the M81 a distinct personality, one that stood out from other cars of its era.
This is the 2.3 liter turbocharged inline-four, originally produced 131 bhp however after McLaren were done with it it was making 175 bhp, and was capable of more still. (Picture from: Silodrome)
Under the hood, the M81McLaren Mustang wasn’t equipped with a large V8 engine, as many might expect from a performance-focused Mustang. Instead, it housed a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 175 horsepower—a respectable figure for the time. This engine was paired with a four-speed manual transmission, sending power to the rear wheels. Although the horsepower may not seem impressive by today’s standards, it was a bold move in an era of increasingly restrictive emissions regulations.
The Ford M81 McLaren Mustang's handling was enhanced with Koni suspension, upgraded brakes, and Firestone HPR tires. (Picture from: Silodrome)
Despite its unique design and engineering, the M81McLaren Mustang struggled to find buyers. Ford had originally planned to build 249 units, but the high price tag—combined with the car’s relatively modest performance figures—meant that only ten were ever produced. This limited production run has made the M81 a highly sought-after collector's item today, with its rarity adding to its allure.
The Ford M81 McLaren Mustang's bodywork had been significantly upgraded to give it a more aggressive stance, marking it as something far different from the standard Mustangs of the time. (Picture from: Silodrome)
Though the car's 0-60 mph time of 9.76 seconds may seem slow compared to modern McLaren supercars, it was still an exciting performance for the era. The car’s handling was enhanced with Koni suspension, upgraded brakes, and Firestone HPR tires. These modifications ensured that the M81McLaren Mustang wasn’t just about straight-line speed but could also offer a balanced driving experience.| SIsYdlMA1HU |
While the original M81McLaren Mustang may not have been a massive commercial success, its legacy lives on as a fascinating chapter in the Mustang’s history. It was a bold attempt to create something different, blending Ford's American muscle with McLaren's precision engineering. In the end, it may have been too expensive for its time, but it remains a symbol of innovation and daring in the automotive world. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | HOTCARS | SILODROME | MOTORTREND | AMCARGUIDE | LMR ]
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The LEGENDS - The legacy of motorsport is marked by a few truly iconic machines, and among them stands the Porsche 917, a car that not only defined an era but also redefined endurance racing. As automotive enthusiasts look back at its glorious history, Porsche has given fans a reason to celebrate with the restoration and unveiling of the Porsche 917 Concept. This bold move bridges the storied past with the promise of an exciting future, embodying everything Porsche has stood for over decades of innovation and racing dominance.
Porsche 917 Concept was built as a part of the "Colors of Speed - 50 years of the 917" exhibition. (Picture from: CarVaganza)
First introduced to the world at the 1969 Geneva Motor Show, the Porsche 917 made an indelible mark on the racing world. Originally designed to conquer the grueling 24 Hours of Le Mans, Porsche AG produced multiple units of this revolutionary race car during the late 1960s. Its aerodynamic body and unparalleled engineering gave it the edge over its competitors, leading to an era of dominance in endurance racing. The car famously secured an incredible 19 gold medals at Le Mans, cementing its status as a motorsport legend. Among its most notable achievements were its victories in 1970 and 1971, often remembered by the striking red and white Salzburg livery that has become synonymous with its success.
The 1969 Porsche 917 K Long Tail coupé / 917-001 Chassis known as one of the most successful Porsche race car ever made in the late 60s Le Mans 24 Hours. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)
During its prime, the Porsche 917 faced stiff competition, notably from the Ford GT40 Mk.I, which also had a history of success at Le Mans. However, the 917 consistently rose above its rivals, setting benchmarks that many would aspire to but few would surpass. Its relentless pursuit of perfection, paired with Porsche's cutting-edge innovation, made it a force to be reckoned with on the track.
One of the 1969 Porsche 917 K-Gulf is raced in the group 5 of 1969 Le Mans 24 Hours. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
Fast-forward five decades, and the Porsche 917 is once again at the center of attention. As part of its 50th-anniversary celebrations, Porsche AG embarked on an ambitious project to restore and modernize this iconic car. The result is the Porsche 917 Concept, a stunning homage to its illustrious predecessor. Featuring a design that harmoniously blends the past and future, the concept boasts a sleek silhouette reminiscent of the Porsche 918 Spyder hypercar. Its updated aesthetics maintain the spirit of the original, particularly with its red and white Salzburg-inspired livery—a visual nod to its golden days at Le Mans.
Beneath its meticulously crafted exterior lies a deeper narrative. The Porsche 917 Concept isn’t just a tribute to a bygone era; it also hints at the future of hypercars under the Porsche banner. This concept was initially conceived as a design study during Porsche’s exploration of a return to the LMP1 class at Le Mans, a decision that materialized with the launch of the 919 Hybrid. While the 917 Concept never made it to production, it played a crucial role in shaping Porsche’s future endeavors in motorsport and high-performance vehicles.
This 1:1 model of the Porsche 917 Concept was created in modelling clay for the return of Porsche to the LMP1 elite class of endurance racing, and the objective of further overall wins in Le Mans associated with this. (Picture from: Porsche)
Michael Mauer, Chief Designer at Porsche, emphasized the importance of striking a balance between honoring history and shaping the future. He acknowledged that while looking back at iconic designs can inspire, the true challenge lies in creating something that sets a new benchmark. This philosophy resonates strongly in the 917 Concept, which serves as a bridge between tradition and innovation.
Porsche’s vision for the concept extends beyond its striking looks. The company has yet to finalize the powertrain for this potential hypercar, leaving room for exciting possibilities. Whether it takes the form of a hybrid or a fully electric vehicle, Porsche CEO Oliver Blume has assured that the decision will hinge on performance and technological advancements. The discussion around powertrain options reflects Porsche’s commitment to sustainable innovation, ensuring that any future hypercar meets the brand’s stringent performance standards.
Steve McQueen, who played a racing driver called Michael Delaney in the 1971 film 'Le Mans,' poses with the Porsche 917 in the pit lane. (Picture from: TheGuardian)
To further celebrate the legacy of the Porsche 917, the concept model has been showcased as part of the "Colors of Speed – 50 years of the 917" exhibition at the Porsche Museum. Held between May and September 2019, the event displayed 14 Porsche models, including ten variants of the legendary 917. This immersive exhibition allowed fans to relive the glory days of the car that once dominated endurance racing and inspired countless automotive enthusiasts worldwide.
Adding to its cultural legacy, the Porsche 917 famously starred alongside Steve McQueen in the 1971 film Le Mans. This cinematic appearance solidified its place in popular culture, presenting the car not only as a racing legend but also as a symbol of pure automotive passion.
As the Porsche 917 Concept garners admiration, it also reignites conversations about what lies ahead for Porsche and the world of high-performance automobiles. Whether it paves the way for a new generation of hypercars or remains a tribute to an unparalleled legacy, the 917 Concept exemplifies the relentless pursuit of excellence that defines Porsche. It is a reminder that while history provides the foundation, the future holds limitless possibilities. In celebrating the 917, Porsche not only honors its past but also signals its unwavering drive to push boundaries and set new standards for generations to come. *** [EKA [21052019] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | NEWSROOM PORSCHE | THEGUARDIAN | CONCEPTCARZ | AUTOCAR | WIKIPEDIA ]
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Heritage Unleashed - When it comes to automotive legends, few names evoke the same sense of awe and respect as Tom Walkinshaw Racing (TWR). Known for its incredible achievements on the racetrack and engineering prowess, TWR has returned to the spotlight with an announcement that has sent waves through the motoring world. Introducing the TWR Supercat: a modern masterpiece born of heritage, innovation, and unrelenting performance. Inspired by TWR's glorious motorsport history and crafted with unparalleled attention to detail, the Supercat promises to be a game-changer in the super-GT segment.
The TWR Supercat, inspired by TWR's legendary motorsport history, combines heritage, innovation, and precision engineering to redefine the super-GT class. (Picture from: TopGear)
The story of the TWR Supercat begins with its illustrious roots. TWR has a rich legacy that includes dominating motorsport events across the globe, notably securing victory at the 1988 Le Mans with the Jaguar XJR-9. This triumph remains one of the most iconic moments in racing history. Today, under the leadership of Fergus Walkinshaw, son of the legendary Tom Walkinshaw, the Supercat seeks to honor this legacy. Limited to just 88 examples worldwide—a nod to the 1988 victory—this super-GT has been meticulously crafted to blend the past with cutting-edge modernity.
The TWR Supercat's journey begins with its illustrious roots, built on TWR's rich legacy of global motorsport dominance, including the iconic 1988 Le Mans victory with the Jaguar XJR-9. (Picture from: TopGear)
The Supercat takes its foundation from the Jaguar XJS, a classic model that exudes elegance and power. However, this is far more than a reimagining; it is a reinvention. The car’s exterior design has been shaped by Khyzyl Saleem, a visionary in automotive styling, with input from Magnus Walker, a celebrated figure in car culture. The result is a striking silhouette that retains the Jaguar XJS's iconic elements, such as the flying buttresses and timeless front-end design, while introducing a bolder, more aggressive stance. Every curve, line, and detail has been aerodynamically optimized, ensuring the car is as functional as it is visually captivating.
The TWR Supercat, built on the elegant and powerful Jaguar XJS, is a complete reinvention with visionary styling by Khyzyl Saleem. (Picture from: TopGear)
Beneath its muscular carbon-fiber body lies the heart of a true beast: a supercharged V12 engine developed in-house by TWR engineers. With an output of 660 horsepower and 730 Nm of torque, the Supercat is built to thrill. The rear-wheel-drive setup, paired with a six-speed manual gearbox, offers an engaging, analog driving experience that enthusiasts will cherish. This isn't just a car; it’s a tribute to the raw and authentic joys of driving. The structural upgrades, including an integrated tubular steel framework and carbon-fiber panels, have reduced weight while enhancing rigidity, ensuring exceptional performance on both road and track.
The TWR Supercat showcases engineering brilliance with a double wishbone suspension and active dynamic damping, delivering exceptional stability and comfort.(Picture from: TopGear)
The engineering brilliance extends to the car's suspension and handling. A double wishbone setup, augmented by active dynamic damping, provides unparalleled stability and comfort. Whether carving through mountain roads or cruising on long journeys, the Supercat adapts effortlessly. Five distinct driving modes allow drivers to tailor the car’s behavior to suit their mood or environment, from relaxed touring to full-throttle track attacks. Optional carbon-ceramic brakes add another layer of precision and control, ensuring the Supercat stops as confidently as it accelerates.
The TWR Supercat combines luxury and practicality with a reimagined interior that blends modern technology and Jaguar XJS-inspired design, featuring leather-clad carbon-fiber seats in contemporary or heritage styles.(Picture from: TopGear)
Inside, the Supercat offers a harmonious blend of luxury and practicality. The interior has been entirely reimagined, combining modern technology with design cues from the original Jaguar XJS. Leather-clad carbon-fiber seats, available in contemporary or heritage styles, provide comfort and support. The expanded luggage area replaces the rear seats, making it ideal for long-distance touring. A digital multimedia interface, compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensures connectivity and convenience. Adjustable suspension and steering settings are just a touch away, thanks to an intuitive toggle interface, emphasizing the car’s user-focused approach.
The TWR Supercat houses a supercharged V12 engine, developed in-house by TWR engineers, delivering 660 horsepower and 730 Nm of torque beneath its carbon-fiber body. (Picture from: TopGear)
What sets the Supercat apart isn’t just its striking design or formidable performance—it’s the attention to detail. Every aspect of the car has been engineered to perfection, from the reimagined flying buttresses to the repositioned exhaust system. Even the wheels, forged in a bespoke Monoblok design, contribute to its widened, athletic stance. The aerodynamic refinements, developed with input from a former F1 aerodynamicist, enhance downforce and stability, making the Supercat as capable on the Nürburgring as it is on scenic highways.
The TWR Supercat is engineered to perfection, with reimagined flying buttresses, a repositioned exhaust system, and bespoke Monoblok wheels enhancing its athletic stance. (Picture from: TopGear)
TWR’s philosophy of blending heritage with innovation shines through in every element of the Supercat. As the company’s first production car, it sets a high standard for what’s to come. Built by hand at TWR’s dedicated facility in Berkshire, each Supercat is a unique creation tailored to its owner’s preferences. From left- to right-hand drive configurations and an array of customization options, every detail is a reflection of TWR’s commitment to excellence.
The Supercat isn’t just a car; it’s a celebration of automotive passion, a bridge between past and future, and a testament to the enduring legacy of TWR. With its exclusivity, extraordinary engineering, and stunning design, this super-GT is poised to become an icon in its own right. As enthusiasts eagerly await the first deliveries in 2025, the TWR Supercat stands as a reminder of what happens when history, artistry, and innovation collide. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | TWRPERFORMANCE | CARANDDRIVER | TOPGEAR | PISTONHEADS | MOTOR1 | MOTORAUTHORITY ]
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🍀Exotic Precision - In the world of sports cars, few can claim the timeless elegance and raw power of the Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione. Debuting as a concept car at the 2003 Frankfurt Auto Show, this Italian masterpiece quickly drew the attention of car enthusiasts with its stunning design and impeccable craftsmanship. Its name pays homage to both its engineering brilliance and racing heritage, with "8C" denoting its eight-cylinder engine and "Competizione" reflecting Alfa Romeo's competition pedigree. Such a legacy sets the stage for one of the most striking vehicles of modern times.
When Alfa Romeo decided to bring the 8C Competizione into limited production in 2006, anticipation reached a fever pitch. Only 500 units were made, ensuring its exclusivity and elevating its allure among collectors. True to its concept roots, the production model retained nearly every aesthetic feature, with only minor modifications like the rear-hinged hood distinguishing it from its prototype. The car’s sculpted carbon-fiber body, designed for both beauty and performance, gave it an unmistakable presence while ensuring lightweight agility.
The exterior of the 8C Competizione is a harmonious blend of classic and contemporary design elements. Its sleek curves, sharp lines, and pronounced grille echo Alfa Romeo's rich history while projecting a modern sophistication. Every detail, from the bold headlamps to the gracefully arched roofline, speaks of meticulous craftsmanship. The rear, with its quad exhausts and aerodynamic contours, further accentuates the car’s racing DNA, making it a feast for the eyes from every angle.
Inside, the 8C Competizione offers an equally captivating experience. The cabin is a luxurious cocoon of fine leather, carbon fiber, and polished aluminum, reflecting a perfect balance between comfort and sportiness. The driver-centric layout ensures an intuitive connection with the car, with every control placed for ease of access. The attention to detail extends to the smallest elements, such as the stitching on the seats and the finish of the instrument panel, exuding an air of exclusivity and precision.
At the heart of this Italian marvel lies a 4.7-liter V8 engine, developed in collaboration with Maserati. This powerplant delivers a remarkable 450 horsepower at 7,000 rpm, with a peak torque of 480 Nm at 4,750 rpm. The engine's responsiveness, combined with an exhilarating redline of 7,500 rpm, ensures thrilling performance on both the track and the open road. Paired with a six-speed transaxle gearbox, the 8C offers five driving modes, ranging from Manual-Sport to Automatic-Wet, adapting seamlessly to any driving condition. With acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.2 seconds and a top speed of 292 km/h, the 8C is a symphony of speed and precision.
Adding to its performance credentials, the 8C Competizione features advanced technologies like a limited-slip differential and Brembo brakes, ensuring exceptional handling and stopping power. The gearbox, capable of shifting in a mere 175 milliseconds in Sport mode, delivers an unmatched driving experience. Every aspect of the car is designed to deliver performance without compromising its luxurious nature.
The 8C Competizione also has a sibling, the 8C Spider, which first appeared as a concept at the 2005 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance before entering production in 2009. Built by Maserati in Modena, the Spider shares much of the Competizione's DNA but adds its own flair with an open-top design. Equipped with an electronically operated fabric roof and a carbon-fiber windshield frame, the Spider achieves an optimal balance between weight distribution and aesthetics. While slightly slower than the coupe, with a top speed of 290 km/h, it offers an equally exhilarating driving experience with the added thrill of open-air motoring.
The Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione and its Spider counterpart represent the pinnacle of Italian automotive artistry. With their blend of timeless design, cutting-edge technology, and unparalleled performance, these cars are not just vehicles but symbols of passion and innovation. Owning or even witnessing one is a reminder of the heights automotive design can achieve—a perfect marriage of form and function, history and modernity. Whether on display or roaring down the highway, the 8C Competizione leaves an indelible impression, standing as a testament to Alfa Romeo's enduring legacy.*** [EKA [13072015] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | WIKIPEDIA ]
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AI Speed - The automotive industry has always been driven by innovation and the pursuit of pushing boundaries. Since the invention of the automobile, the fascination with speed, performance, and groundbreaking design has led to the creation of the sports car—a symbol of engineering excellence and human ambition. This relentless drive for progress has now reached an intriguing intersection: the fusion of electric technology and artificial intelligence in the realm of high-performance vehicles.
The ROBO X, an electric supercar developed by JiYue, a company formed through the partnership of Chinese tech giant Baidu and automotive powerhouse Geely. (Picture from: CNEVPost)
Enter the ROBO X, an electric supercar developed by JiYue, a company formed through the partnership of Chinese tech giant Baidu and automotive powerhouse Geely in 2021. JiYue’s vision redefines the sports car by incorporating advanced autonomous capabilities, setting it apart in a fiercely competitive market. With its promise of combining unparalleled speed and AI-driven intelligence, the ROBO X challenges traditional notions of what it means to drive a supercar.
The JiYue ROBO X, featuring a shark-like front fascia, a prominent hood scoop, and aggressive aerodynamic elements, boasts a style that is both futuristic and functional.. (Picture from: CNEVPost)
ROBO X boasts astonishing performance statistics, including the ability to accelerate from 0 to 100 kph in under 1.9 seconds and an impressive range of 650 km. While specific details about its powertrain remain under wraps, these figures place the vehicle in the upper echelon of the supercar hierarchy. Such capabilities are not merely about speed; they highlight JiYue’s ambition to reshape expectations in the electric sports car arena.
The JiYue ROBO X boasts astonishing performance statistics, including the ability to accelerate from 0 to 100 kph in under 1.9 seconds and an impressive range of 650 km.. (Picture from: CNEVPost)
The car’s design reflects its bold character. Its shark-like front fascia, prominent hood scoop, and aggressive aerodynamic elements showcase a style that’s both futuristic and functional. Massive air intakes and rear fenders with dynamic wings emphasize its sporty essence. These features have already earned the ROBO X accolades, including the prestigious German Red Dot Design Award and German Design Award, underscoring its aesthetic and engineering brilliance.
JiYue calls the ROBO X a 'supercar with AI capabilities that for the first time combines autonomous driving in a sports car'. (Picture from: CNEVPost)
Beyond its striking appearance and raw power, the ROBO X integrates Baidu Apollo’s advanced self-driving technology, previously seen in robotaxis. JiYue claims this is the first sports car capable of delivering autonomous driving experiences tailored for circuit racing. This revolutionary concept raises questions about the essence of racing—traditionally a celebration of human skill and instinct—when AI takes the wheel.
The JiYue ROBO X also features massive air intakes and rear fenders with dynamic wings, emphasizing its sporty essence.(Picture from: CNEVPost)
JiYue is not stopping at the ROBO X. Its next creation promises even more thrilling possibilities. Featuring a quad-motor, liquid-cooled powertrain, the future model aims to deliver unmatched acceleration and power. Although specific output figures are still under wraps, its 1.9-second 0-to-60 mph capability ensures it will stand as one of the quickest electric supercars globally, outpacing competitors like the YangWang U9 and Xiaomi’s SU7 Ultra.
The JiYUe ROBO X, , featuring a quad-motor, liquid-cooled powertrain, the future model aims to deliver unmatched acceleration and power. (Picture from: CNEVPost)
With a projected range of 400 miles, the ROBO X aims to balance performance with practicality, though track usage may affect its range. The model is set to begin delivery in 2027, offering the world a glimpse into the potential of AI-driven racing and intelligent driving technologies in the years to come.
As JiYue charts this ambitious path, the automotive world waits with bated breath. Will the ROBO X redefine the sports car and racing segments, or will its AI-driven innovations spark debate over the future of driving? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: JiYue has set the stage for a fascinating evolution in automotive history. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | JIYUE | ROBBREPORT | SUPERCARBLONDIE | CNEVPOST | ELECTREK ]
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📢America's Rare Muscle King - In the late 1950s and early 1960s, automotive design underwent a transformative period with the advent of fiberglass body construction. Once a technology reserved for major manufacturers, it became accessible to enthusiasts and small companies, ushering in an era of creativity and customization in garage workshops.
The 1965 Kellison J6 Panther was a rare and remarkable sports car from the early 1960s, available as either a kit or fully assembled. (Picture from: f1jherbert in Flickr)
One of the lesser-known gems of this era is the Kellison J6, a rare and remarkable sports car from the early 1960s. Founded in 1957, the Kellison Cars initially gained traction with their kits for popular car models before introducing the groundbreaking J6. This model, available either as a kit or fully assembled, solidified Kellison's reputation as a boutique manufacturer catering to automotive enthusiasts.
The Kellison Cars initially gained traction with their kits for popular car models before introducing the groundbreaking J6. (Picture from: BringATrailer)
Jim Kellison, the driving force behind the J6, drew inspiration from his passion for airplanes and fast cars. Utilizing his expertise in aerodynamics, he crafted a vehicle that not only looked striking but also delivered outstanding performance on the road and track.
The 1965 Kellison J6's appeal was its fiberglass body, combining lightweight construction with strength to achieve a sleek and aerodynamic design. (Picture from: BringATrailer)
At the heart of the J6's appeal was its fiberglass body, combining lightweight construction with strength to achieve a sleek and aerodynamic design. Positioned on a Corvette frame, the J6underwent significant modifications including engine placement, suspension enhancements, and upgraded brakes and interior.
The 1965 Kellison J6's interior includes a three-spoke racing steering wheel and a straightforward, racing-style dashboard. (Picture from: BringATrailer)
Initially, Jim Kellison encountered challenges with the J6's handling, prompting him to collaborate with Chuck Manning to develop the innovative 'Steel X Shape' frame. This innovation resolved the car's performance issues, allowing the J6 to excel on race tracks across the United States.
The 1965 Kellison J6 Panther powered by a robust V8 engines sourced from Chevrolet or Ford, propelling it to speeds exceeding 150 miles per hour. (Picture from: BringATrailer)
Those refinements not only improved handling but also enhanced speed, leveraging the car's reduced weight compared to its Corvette counterpart. Under its hood, the J6 typically housed robust V8 engines sourced from Chevrolet or Ford, propelling it to speeds exceeding 150 miles per hour—a feat that outpaced many contemporary cars.
Beyond its prowess on the track, the J6 captivated enthusiasts for its rarity. With only around 100 units produced, each J6 was akin to a bespoke masterpiece, coveted by collectors for its unique blend of performance and exclusivity. The legacy of the Kellison J6 endures as a testament to American innovation and automotive craftsmanship.
It serves as a reminder of how one individual's vision and expertise can redefine automotive design and leave an indelible mark on history. While not as widely recognized as some of its counterparts, the J6 remains a cherished icon among automotive aficionados, embodying the spirit of ingenuity that continues to inspire enthusiasts and collectors alike today. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | KELLISON CARS | PISTONUDOS | MOTORTREND | ROADANDTRACK | UNDISCOVEREDCLASSIC | BRINGATRAILER ]
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While the original M81 McLaren Mustang may not have been a massive commercial success, its legacy lives on as a fascinating chapter in the Mustang’s history. It was a bold attempt to create something different, blending Ford's American muscle with McLaren's precision engineering. In the end, it may have been too expensive for its time, but it remains a symbol of innovation and daring in the automotive world. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | HOTCARS | SILODROME | MOTORTREND | AMCARGUIDE | LMR ]
