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1962 Siebler Special

The California coast was the epicenter of many memorable sports cars built during the 1950s and 1960s, fostering the budding fiberglass movement that promised to revolutionize the way cars were built. This exotic construction technique was cheaper than carbon fiber, stronger than many metals by weight, and could be formed into complex shapes and designs. It was inherently strong, weather-resistant, lightweight, and versatile, making it attractive to hot rodders, sports car builders, and racers who were seeking a competitive edge.

Fiberglass (fiber-reinforced plastic glass strands) was accidentally discovered in the early 1930s and perfected during World War II, where it was used for various applications, including aircraft. After World War II, it became popular with boat and sports car body construction. Among the early sports cars that received fiberglass bodies include the Chevy Corvette and the Kaiser Darrin, along with numerous sports cars such as the Devin, Kurtis, Byers, Woodill, Glasspar, Kellison, Victress, and Sadler (to name a few). The fiberglass bodies were sold as kits, complete custom-built cars, and one-off specials.

Dick Siebler was a native Nebraskan residing in California, where he built his first 'Special' in 1955. His creations received a tubular frame, American mechanical components, and fiberglass coachwork. Dick Siebler created the frame, the body design (inspired by Italian sports cars of the era), bucks and molds, and the 'fit and finish.' His wife assisted with the sewing and upholstery. The first car was completed in 1955, and the second example followed in the early 1960s. A third body was built and sold to an enthusiast, and all three exist in modern times.

This Siebler Special is powered by a Ford Y-block V8 engine.

by Dan Vaughan

Roadster

Dick Siebler was a native Nebraskan, arriving in California in late-1951 where he became employed at Edwards Air Force Base as a welder. His dream was to build a sports car. Over seven years, he built two sports cars for his personal use; the Italian-inspired body design derived from both the Cunningham C1 and the Siata. His wife contributed, learning to sew and form upholstery. Siebler was responsible for the frame design and build, body design, buck and molds, paint, and final fit and finish. The first car was completed in 1955 winning recognition and trophies throughout Southern California. He sold this car in 1961 and began building this, his second car, improving the power and suspension. It was finished in 1963 and is powered by a Y-block Ford V-8. A third body was built and sold to a race car enthusiast. All exist today.

by Dan Vaughan