An Exquisite Piece of Automotive Art: The Story of the Singular 1962 Excalibur RS Roadster
In the world of classic cars, it’s rare to encounter a vehicle that truly defies convention—a masterpiece that exists in a category all its own. Enter the 1962 Excalibur RS Roadster: a one-of-a-kind creation that seamlessly marries the spirit of the past with the innovation of the present. As this unique roadster prepares to make its debut at Mecum’s Indy 2025 auction, it beckons both collectors and enthusiasts alike to delve into its fascinating story.
The Birth of a Legend: Brooks Stevens and the Excalibur Vision
The roots of the Excalibur RS Roadster trace back to 1961, when visionary American designer Brooks Stevens conceived the Excalibur Hawk. This hardtop-only design was a bold statement of style and engineering prowess, capturing the imagination of car aficionados. While plans for a roadster version were considered, they remained unrealized—until Stevens’ friend revived the dream in the 1990s.
“Brooks Stevens was a pioneer who could see beyond the conventional limits of car design,” notes automotive historian Dr. Alex Monroe. “His work on the Excalibur exemplified his ability to blend elegance with performance.”
A Unique Creation: Crafting the Excalibur RS Roadster
The Excalibur RS Roadster is a one-of-one build, a testament to bespoke craftsmanship. The car is built on a custom steel tube frame, cloaked in meticulously handcrafted aluminum body panels. Its aesthetic nods to automotive royalty with its Lamborghini Murcielago-derived upward-opening doors and a front end inspired by the legendary Ford GT40.
Beneath its striking exterior lies a heart of American muscle: a 5.7-liter V-8 engine courtesy of General Motors. Equipped with 1990s-era throttle-body fuel injection, this powerplant delivers the quintessential V-8 sound through tubular headers, channeling power to the rear wheels via a 700R4 automatic transmission. While some purists may lament the absence of a manual gearbox, the automatic transmission ensures a smooth cruising experience.
Design Meets Function: A Closer Look at the Details
The Excalibur RS Roadster is as much a work of art as it is a machine. Inside, the cockpit is a lesson in precision, featuring a neatly arranged interior and custom-dressed engine bay with bespoke intake and valve covers. Power-operated hood, doors, and trunk add a touch of modern convenience, while its deep Mercedes-Benz blue hue accentuates its sleek lines.
The Auction Block Beckons: A Collector’s Dream
As this singular piece of automotive history prepares to cross the auction block at Mecum’s Indy 2025 event on May 16, the anticipation is palpable. The Excalibur RS Roadster is not just a car; it’s a narrative of ambition, artistry, and homage to a bygone era. For collectors, it represents a rare opportunity to own a slice of automotive lore.
What will the final bid be for this unparalleled creation? Only time will tell. But one thing is certain: the Excalibur RS Roadster is poised to capture the hearts of enthusiasts and collectors on auction day, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of automotive history.
