1961 Sabel MK1

Ingenuity, creativity, expertise, and the proliferation of fiberglass as a body-making material helped fuel the sports car scene. The 1950s and early 1960s, in particular, witnessed the creation of many sports cars and racing specials clothed in svelte bodies made of fiberglass. One such creator was John Sabel of California, who later relocated to Maryland after completing his military service. With an appreciation for Volkswagen and Porsche cars, many of the vehicles he built received mechanical componentry from these two German manufacturers. His earliest build began with a 1952 Volkswagen floorpan, with the engine, gearbox, and suspension sourced from a Porsche 356. The brakes and wheels were (reportedly) from a 550 Spyder. The low-slung body was built in his garage using fiberglass, with styling elements no-doubt inspired by many of the great builders of the era, including Devin, Cooper, and Lister.

The air-cooled flat four-cylinder engine had overhead valves, a pair of Solex PII 40 carburetors, a 1,582cc displacement, and produced approximately 85 horsepower. It was paired with a four-speed manual transaxle, and four-wheel drum brakes provided the stopping power.

Known as the Sabel-Porsche MKI, it would gain notoriety throughout its racing endeavors, ultimately leading to the creation and sale of approximately 30 bodies.

The Sabel-Porsche MKI made its inaugural outing at the 1964 Hershey Hillclimb, later running the Duryea Hillclimb using a borrowed Porsche Speedster engine. The circa-30 bodied Sabels enjoyed success both on and off the track, proving to be a formidable and attractive competitor.

by Daniel Vaughan | Oct 2024