vnmsss
01-28-2015, 02:09 PM
Some three years ago we began a project to create the prototype of a Challenge Series Coupe. A lot has happened in that time, including the development of the first prototype car, which we fondly named the "Warrior Princess." We were proud to feature the car at the 2012 SEMA Show, and then race it at track events, including Bob Bondurant's 80th birthday event held in Phoenix in October 2013. The car handles and drives great, but from the first start, always had electrical and engine issues, which we could never reign in. Last fall, I made the decision to completely remove the drivetrain and electrical system, and have been busy rebuilding the car over the last few months.
I am doing the work myself, and expect to have the wiring complete within the next few weeks. I've also worked with my machinist, Dennis, at D & R Machine to completely rebuild the engine. In an effort to simplify things, I've chosen to go with a naturally aspirated, 347 CID engine, which is done and ready to install as soon as the wiring is complete.
My vision has been, and continues to be, the development of a Coupe and Challenge car series through which we will be able to campaign our cars in premier events around the country. The Coupes represent one of the greatest, if not the greatest, accomplishments of American racing in the modern era. With only six original Coupes in existence though, and with their values in the multiple million dollar range, no one will ever likely see another Coupe on track, even at a vintage racing event. These cars are cool to the "n-th" degree, and having a significant group of them on track in a demonstration race would surely be a thrilling spectacle.
I'll post some updated photos once the work is complete, and will be posting an all-call thread to fellow builders that are in the process of (or already completed) a race-prepared/Challenge Series Coupe so we can get a handle on who is out there with a car ready for competition.
Thanks for keeping the faith, and for honoring the truly awesome history of these fine cars. I continue to be inspired and humbled by your innovations and your creativity in keeping the flame alive!
Karen
I am doing the work myself, and expect to have the wiring complete within the next few weeks. I've also worked with my machinist, Dennis, at D & R Machine to completely rebuild the engine. In an effort to simplify things, I've chosen to go with a naturally aspirated, 347 CID engine, which is done and ready to install as soon as the wiring is complete.
My vision has been, and continues to be, the development of a Coupe and Challenge car series through which we will be able to campaign our cars in premier events around the country. The Coupes represent one of the greatest, if not the greatest, accomplishments of American racing in the modern era. With only six original Coupes in existence though, and with their values in the multiple million dollar range, no one will ever likely see another Coupe on track, even at a vintage racing event. These cars are cool to the "n-th" degree, and having a significant group of them on track in a demonstration race would surely be a thrilling spectacle.
I'll post some updated photos once the work is complete, and will be posting an all-call thread to fellow builders that are in the process of (or already completed) a race-prepared/Challenge Series Coupe so we can get a handle on who is out there with a car ready for competition.
Thanks for keeping the faith, and for honoring the truly awesome history of these fine cars. I continue to be inspired and humbled by your innovations and your creativity in keeping the flame alive!
Karen