1962 Kellison J5 Coupe

Jim Kellison created Kellison Engineering & Manufacturing Company in 1954. The operation was based in California and specialized in kit car creation. Kellison served as a fighter pilot during World War II, and his closeness to aerodynamic designs undoubtedly influenced his streamlined and attractive race car bodies. The company sold its product in a variety of guises and completion.

The Coupe created by Kellison is one of the more extreme designs ever to be put into production. It was based on the Corvette and powered by a more modern 302 cubic-inch Chevy engine with four-barrel carburetion and a four-speed manual transmission. Similarly to the Cunningham team cars, the car was finished in white with a blue stripe. In comparison to the Corvette, it was lighter and more powerful. The engine and gearbox were moved back from the stock location, providing better balance and handling. The running gear comprises GM components, including the 15-inch ET alloy wheels similar to the ones used on a 1962 Corvette. The interior appears to be from a stock 1962 Corvette with a 160 mph speedometer. The interior is finished in black Naugahyde with blue piping similar to the body stripe.

This example has been restored since new. It was brought to the 2007 Monterey Sports & Classic Car Auction presented by RM Auctions, with an estimated value of $45,000 - $55,000. It was offered without reserve, which worked in the buyer's favor, as the lot was sold for a mere $33,000, including the buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Dec 2007