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1952 Woodill Wildfire news, pictures, and information | ||
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The Woodill Wildfire, built by B. R. 'Woody' woodill, is considered, by most enthusiasts, to be the genesis of production American fiberglass sports cars. Although production was low (3 in 1952 and 7-11 in 1953), the car was slated to be Willy's answer to the sports car, until its ultimate acquisition by Kaiser-Frazer Corporation, which has already slated the Darrin to be their entry into the field.
The car received major attention from the automotive press because of 'Woodys's' great showmanship. It even starred in three movies: 'Johnny Dark' with Tony Curtis, 'Written on the Wind' with Rock Hudson and 'Knock on Wood' with Danny Kay.
The hand-laid fiberglass cloth body, produced by Bill Tritt of Glasspar Corporation, was affixed to a custom frame, built by the famous hot rodder, Shorty Post. All running gear was contemporary Willys, including the 161 cubic-inch F-head engine. The engine was equipped with a triple carburetor manifold made exclusively for the Wildfire. This 1952 model is the sole survivor, to date, of the 'type one vehicles' and was restored, including paint, by the owner.
The car received major attention from the automotive press because of 'Woodys's' great showmanship. It even starred in three movies: 'Johnny Dark' with Tony Curtis, 'Written on the Wind' with Rock Hudson and 'Knock on Wood' with Danny Kay.
The hand-laid fiberglass cloth body, produced by Bill Tritt of Glasspar Corporation, was affixed to a custom frame, built by the famous hot rodder, Shorty Post. All running gear was contemporary Willys, including the 161 cubic-inch F-head engine. The engine was equipped with a triple carburetor manifold made exclusively for the Wildfire. This 1952 model is the sole survivor, to date, of the 'type one vehicles' and was restored, including paint, by the owner.
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