Bob's Cars:
1972 OTAS Grande Prix
This car will probably be the most unique I shall ever own, as may be evidenced by it's serial number -- 0070. That's not just the last few digits, that's the WHOLE thing!
I bought it as I was leaving CalTech to go to Michigan to begin my career. It cost $3600 and came "standard" with a rear mounted 817 cc Fiat based engine that had been 'breathed on' by Abarth. California laws exempted cars with under 50 cubic inches from SMOG regulations! This engine just squeaked under. A small plate on the firewall said so!
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The steel body was designed by Francis
Lombardi and was used by OTAS, Gianni, and Abarth. It had only one
windshield wiper, and was only belly button high! Michigan license plate
fees were based on weight, and, since it wasn't in anybody's standard
books, I had to go and get it weighed at the public (certified) scale in
East Lansing. It weighed 1750 pounds, including a tank of gas (it only
held 8 gal!) & ME! Weight distribution was 750 lbs on the front,
1000 lbs on the rear. |
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1972 OTAS Grand Prix S/N 0070. |
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For more info on
this unique marque, see
AutoWeek |
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