Description
Introduction
In the mid ’70s, Chicago businessman and car enthusiast John Guanci decided to reinvent the American sports car. By now, the iconic Chevrolet Corvette had remained unchanged for years, and plans for a radical mid-engine version had been cancelled. Guanci saw an opportunity to create something completely new: an American supercar that could take on the absolute best in the world.
Together with a select team of engineers, construction of the Guanci SJJ began in 1977. Bob McKee designed an aluminium monocoque chassis, Dick Kleber developed the suspension and engineering, and Mike Williams handled the body design. The result was a streamlined mid-engine supercar powered by a 270-hp Corvette L82 V8.
In 1979, the SJJ made its debut at the Chicago Auto Show. Only two examples were built, of which this one is ééone of the very last. With an odometer reading of just 1,476 miles (2,375 km), this vehicle is a unique opportunity for collectors worldwide. Today, this Guanci SJJ appears exclusively on SBX Cars – a rare opportunity to own a piece of American automotive history.
History & Development
The Guanci SJJ was developed as an alternative to the established order of sports cars. The aluminium chassis offered rigidity and lightweight characteristics, while the mid-engine configuration ensured optimal weight distribution. The SJJ name is a tribute to Guanci’s wife Susan and son John Joseph.
After its debut at the Chicago Auto Show, production was limited to just two examples, partly due to economic circumstances and the death of one of the investors. The vehicle offered here is ééone of these two, and is in exceptionally original condition.
Main Features
• One of only 2 examples ever built
• Aluminium monocoque chassis
• Mid-engine layout with Corvette L82 V8
• Designed by former Chrysler designer Mike Williams
• Presented at the 1979 Chicago Auto Show
• Exceptionally low miles and mileage
Auction information – general
• Selling on behalf of customer
• Car is on display at Louwman Exclusive in the Netherlands
• Registration status: Non-EU, US registration
• EU car: No, VAT status: Out of VAT
