The Car: Stutz Bearcat Replica Built by George Barris
Color:
Restored to Original TV Colors
Interior:
Red seats with beautiful Apointments
Engine:
223 CI Ford 6 Cyl 138 hp
Trans:
4 Speed
Details:
Informnation Direct from the Owner/Seller:
The basics:
Custom chassis
All metal hand formed bodywork
138 hp, 223 c.i. Ford I-6
4-Speed manual, four wheel brakes
Restored 1999 to as built/TV spec: New paint, interior, dash and instruments, cylindrical fuel tank, running boards, radiator overhaul by Stu Laidlaw. Restored period Rubes horn, New Motometer.
New 25" wood wheels. 34 x 4 1/2 tires (two newer, two old but in good condition).
Comes with records, full Barris documentation, period photos, spares and removed parts. Series memorabilia available.
It has been stored in a heated dark garage that is always cool in summer.
I've had it 70 mph on a smooth road (when I was in Texas).
It weighs 2900 lbs, so 1000 lbs less than a Stutz with more than twice the power.
Pulls very well, stops on the proverbial dime with the four wheel Ford brakes. I did the brakes cylinders and pads, 3-4 years ago.
All NAPA stuff.
The main change under the hood is a switch from a generator to a one wire alternator.
I also fitted a air cleaner with a 90° horn from a Jeep.
The rear is a Ford 8" unit, the axles are ' 65 Mustang.
Modern shocks up front, air shocks in back (that's the way Barris built it). It has faux friction shocks up front (I'm impressed they went with that level of detail for a part that would likely not be seen on TV. Likewise, the throttle pedal...embossed "MOON"...is between the clutch and brake like a Stutz).
According to "The Legendary Custom Cars and Hot Rods of Gene Winfield" by David Grant, Motorbooks, 2008, the body panels were created by Italian fabricator, Andre De Stefanis. He worked for Winfield, and he worked at the famous AMT shop in Phoenix. After returning to Italy, he returned to the U.S. And spent "four to five" years working for Barris. George Baris did get to see the car again up close and personal in 2010, and was photographed with the car (documentation included with purchace). However at that time he was not asked to autograph the car nor was a "Barris Crest" added to the car (in order to maintain screen used accuracy). A Crest will be included with the sale.
Basic facts:
- Built by George Barris for the 1971 CBS-TV series "Bearcats!" starting Rod Taylor.
- One of two built for the series, the only one with a 4-speed.
- Restored to original TV colors (the other one isn't).
- Featured in several magazines, The Wall Street Journal, Classic and Sports Car (UK), Old Cars, Hemmings Motor News and Pat Ganhal's book "Lost Hot Rods II".
-Took part in the 2011 Stutz Centennial at the IMS.
BTW: Real Bearcat owners did not tar and feather me.
Unbeatable special deal for a real dedicated Film Car fan, this is a rare chance to get a screen used hero car. I have always said it is probably the most driven Barris custom out there.
I drive it about 200 miles a year, taking it to breakfast every summer Sunday.
I really want to see it go to a GOOD home.
