1969 Excalibur Series I Roadster

The Excalibur story began in 1964 when renowned industrial designer, Brooks Stevens, at that time working as a consultant to Studebaker, was asked to design a show car for that year’s New York Auto Show. An avid automobile enthusiast and collector, Stevens was a fan of the pre-war Mercedes-Benz SSK and sold the idea of a ‘contemporary classic’ take on the German sports car to Studebaker, who were at that time Mercedes importers. For the ‘Mercebaker’, Stevens used a modified Studebaker Daytona chassis, which was clothed in retro-styled lightweight coachwork that he had first sketched on a place-mat one lunchtime.Built in just eight weeks, the prototype Excalibur SS was ready three days before the New York Auto Show. When Studebaker passed on the project in favor of the Avanti, a Chevrolet dealer stepped in and offered to supply engines and other parts. After an advertisement in the Wall Street Journal provided enough deposits to begin production, the company set up shop in Milwaukee, Wisconsin in 1966. Often considered to be the first of the 'neoclassic' makes, the Excalibur created a sensation, albiet an expensive one due to its hand-built nature. As such, many Excaliburs ended up in the hands of celebrities, some of whom included: Steve McQueen, Bill Cosby, Frank Sinatra, Dick Van Dyke, Tony Curtis, Sonny & Cher, Dean Martin, and Jackie Gleason. Nowadays, these cars are well-regarded by those who appreciate their unique heritage and style.The incredible Excalibur SS Series I Roadster featured here is finished in stunning Glacier White over Red leather with a White folding convertible top. Equipped with a 327ci Corvette V8 producing 300hp coupled to a 4-speed manual, this 2,200 pound car could practically keep up with a 289 Cobra. Just released from a respected private collection, this exceptional Excalibur has been restored to show quality by a previous owner and is now ready for its next caretaker. This is an incredible opportunity for the most demanding collector, investor, or enthusiast who understands and appreciates the investment potential of this iconic, limited-production car.