Open Road Fall 2013

FALL 2013

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VOLUME 9 / ISSUE 3

OPENROAD

Presenting Sponsor

Concours Club

Corporate Sponsors

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Concours Club

Official Providers

Major Sponsor Recognition

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F E A T U R ES

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f e a t ur e :

EYES ON THE ROAD AHEAD

ACM maps a route to the future. A “view through the windshield” vision statement

by David Madeira.

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A U T O B I O G R A PH Y :

1939 PACKARD SUPER EIGHT

A jewel of a convertible coupe that comes to us through the generosity of ACM Board member Nicola Bulgari.

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5 Behind the wheel

A report from David Madeira, ACM President & CEO G U EST EDIT O R I A L :

GENESIS OF AN AMERICAN ICON

The inside story of how the Corvette Sting Ray came to be by Peter Brock, with excerpts from his new book on the subject.

6 MARK YOUR CALENDAR

Must-attend premier events 7 ALONG FOR THE RIDE

Random musings by the managing editor of OpenRoad 8 signpost & SAVE THE DATE

Late breaking news & what’s on tap 14 MEMORY LANE

Summer 2013 photo gallery

15 ON EXHIBIT

Cars currently on view in the galleries and exhibit ramps of ACM

16 MEMBERSHIP

Upcoming events and activities for ACM members of every level 17 Fuel for thought

Financial advice for car enthusiasts 18 ROAD WELL TAKEN

Central Oregon Coast

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Success is doing something about it.

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LeMay– AMERICAS CAR MUSEUM

President & CEODavid Madeira

BEHIND THE WHEEL ACM… CELEBRATING THE AUTOMOBILE— AND THE FAMILY during our three-hour visit, never tired of exploring the Museum’s many sights and surprises! He roamed from car to car with Michael and me and later was swept up in the action on the slot car track.

LeMay– AMERICA’S CAR MUSEUM is known for celebrating America’s love affair with the automobile. We designed it to be a welcoming place… easy to get to and tour, friendly and fun. Our visitors are treated to an amazing range of exhibits, attractions and events—all of which are crafted to engage them on a personal level and with their own “auto-biography.” And of course, our promotion of motorcycle festivals, car shows, and a host of other activities for the “enthusiast” community, have added luster to our reputation as a premier destination attraction.

I’m delighted to say ACM is also increasingly seen as a perfect venue for family visits—a place where grandparents to toddlers have fun together. And how do I know this? I’ve experienced it first-hand.

My wife, Lynda, and I brought our son Michael, daughter in-law Amie, and two grandchildren to the Museum this summer when they visited us from Michigan. Grandson Nolan is three years old and,

More surprising to us, even Adlee, our charming 15-month old granddaughter, was enjoying the experience. We’d find her admiring the new Ferrambo or peering intently at the Brooklin model cars—always with a big smile on her face. Of course, the French Fries in Classics Grill seemed to capture her interest the most—but that’s fine, it’s why the Café is there—to entice us all. After hours spent strolling through exhibits, racing slot cars, examining items in the store and enjoying snacks in the Café, the kids still didn’t want the visit to end. The only reason they consented to do so was the opportunity to take a ride in a 1939 Packard convertible—and who could blame them!

Needless to say, we were a pair of happy grandparents that day. It was a chance to experience the Museum the way our guest families do. With the opening of the “Family Zone” and its many attractions all specifically designed for kids— pinewood derbies, slot car racing, an opportunity to “take the wheel” of a car and summer Drive-In Movie Nights—AMERICA’S CAR MUSEUM is truly a “family friendly” place. Just ask me, my grandkids proved it and I can’t wait for them to come back!

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BOARD OF DIRECTORS

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

Karl Anderson, Chairman Concrete Technology Corporation Tacoma, Washington Neal Arntson, President Albina Fuel Company Vancouver, Washington John Barline, Attorney Williams Kastner & Gibbs, PLLC Tacoma, Washington Stephen Boone, President Northwest Harley-Davidson Olympia, Washington Nicola Bulgari, Vice Chairman BVLGARI S.p.A. Rome, Italy

The Clauses are Back! / December 14, 15, 21, 22 They were a hit last year and now they’re back.

Santa and Mrs. Claus will once again help us celebrate the holidays at AMERICA’S CAR MUSEUM with special appearances on December 14, 15, 21, and 22! It’s all part of our “12 Days of Christmas.” Join us for daily activities and treats during this popular family-friendly celebration, December 13 – 24.

Bob Craves, Chairman/CEO College Success Foundation Founding Officer (Retired) Costco Issaquah, Washington Richard (Rick) B. Davis, President Standard Parts Corporation Tacoma, Washington John C. Dimmer, President FIRS Management, LLC Tacoma, Washington Art Fischer, President/General Manager NAPA Auto Parts Albany, New York Larry Gordon, President/CEO Gordon Trucking Pacific, Washington McKeel Hagerty, CEO Hagerty Insurance Traverse City, Michigan Tom Hedges, Co-owner Hedges Family Estate Seattle, Washington George Ingle, President/General Manager The Ingle Company Tacoma, Washington

Last Chance to Get a Paver / Through December Time is running out… get your personalized granite plaza paver now. We’ve extended the offer through this December so don’t miss this soon-to-end opportunity to put your stamp on ACM. The pavers are available in a variety of sizes. For purchase information, visit the Museum’s website, lemaymuseum.org or call our Membership Department toll free at 877-902-8490.

Doug LeMay, Vice President LeMay Investments LLC Tacoma, Washington Nancy LeMay, CEO LeMay Investments LLC Tacoma, Washington Charles Liekweg, Former President/CEO AAA Washington Kirkland, Washington David Lowe Madeira, President/CEO LeMay AMERICA’S CAR MUSEUM Tacoma, Washington Keith Martin, Publisher Sports Car Market Portland, Oregon James Gary May Hopewell Land Partners LLC, Winter Haven, Florida B. Corry McFarland, CEO Cedar Management Corp.

Fife, Washington Paul E. Miller, Ex-Officio, VP/COO LeMay AMERICA’S CAR MUSEUM Tacoma, Washington Michael J. Phillips, Chairman Altaira Wealth Management Geneva, Switzerland Burt Richmond, Executive Vice President FitzRich, Inc Chicago, Illinois Candida Romanelli, President Romanelli Event Services Frisco, Texas William T. Weyerhaeuser Director/Chairman, Columbia Bank Tacoma, Washington James M. Will, President Titus-Will Enterprises, Inc. Tacoma, Washington

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PUBLICATION CREDITS Managing Editor & Head Writer Walt Tomsic, Tomsic Sullivan Design

Guest Editor, Peter Brock Car Designer, Writer & Photographer

Professor Emeritus at Pacific Lutheran University, Walt is a confirmed “car nut.” He started with a ‘53 Austin-Healey 100 in high school and continued through a procession of Triumphs, an Alfa Romeo, a Shelby GT-350, three 60s vintage ‘Pagoda’ SLs, a Beck 356 and a couple of E-types.

His current ride is a 1955 Austin-Healey 100.

Peter Brock’s exploits with Shelby and the Daytona coupe are well celebrated. What are less known, are his successes as a hangglider designer, racing team owner, educator and automotive journalist/photographer.

In the Guest Editorial on pages 24 & 25, Peter shares excerpts from his latest book, Corvette Sting Ray / Genesis of an American Icon.

Art Direction & Graphic Design Denise Sullivan, Tomsic Sullivan Design Denise has a BFA in graphic design from Pacific Lutheran University and has operated her own design business for over 30 years. Passionate for sports cars, she has owned several throughout the years including a ‘64 TR4 Sebring, a ‘72 TR6, and a 1979 Porsche. Her current ride is an ‘08 Special Edition Miata.

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Michael Craft ACM Official Photographer Special thanks to Advertising Photographer Michael Craft for creating many of the beautiful images printed in OpenRoad.

MichaelCraftPhotography.com

STEERING COMMITTEE Rod Alberts, Executive Director Detroit Auto Dealers Association Executive Director, North American International Auto Show Detroit, Michigan Thomas L. Bryant, Editor in Chief Emeritus Road & Track Bainbridge, Washington

“Memories… pressed between the pages of my mind.

Memories… tweeted to the cages of… Mike’s twine… something, something.” Oh well, regardless how those sappy lyrics actually go, point is, whenever the celestial clock strikes fall/winter I get sappy about summer past. You can see why ACM summers are so appealing by checking out the photos on page 14.

Sun country dwellers rarely experience these seasonally induced waves of melancholy. We of the northern climes do… in spades! The French have the perfect word for it… “ennui”… a feeling of listless boredom— no doubt caused by being French. But take heart fellow autophiles. Step down off that ledge. ACM is here to see you through the dark time.

The cure for the vehicular strain of ennui is really quite simple—regular and frequent winter visits to AMERICA’S CAR MUSEUM. Exhaustive studies at major online universities have determined being close to chrome and carburetors is definitely therapeutic—not to mention “spiritually restorative.” That’s a direct quote from one of the studies. Just seeing the reddish glow of the neon Pegasus emerge through the morning mist as you approach the Museum is somehow deeply comforting.

Once inside, you will savor the scent of fresh brewed coffee wafting down from the Café. A leisurely stroll through the display aisles of the Museum store easily becomes a quest for hidden treasure; a new book,

die-cast model or the latest in clever t-shirts. And then… there they are… the cars—so many cars— your first one, the one you wish you had bought, the one you wish you hadn’t sold... or bought. You make your way to the “Boone Speed Zone” to relive your somewhat time-embellished exploits on that bowling alley slot car track in your old hometown… ahhh, the “memories.”

But hey, ACM’s not just about looking at life through the rearview mirror. There is a windshield too and spring/summer is just down the road. You’ve always pined for a 4-4-2, a 356 or a C3 Vette. Well, they’re here, waiting to be pined over. You know what they say—“they” being every motivational “lifecoach”—“If you can see it, you can achieve it!”

Take your time… allow your gaze to inch along every crease and curvature of sheetmetal on that 4-4-2. Do it until they’re indelibly imprinted on your neural pathways. Chances are you’ll be driving one by mid-July… trust me, it’s a lock!

So you see, for car enthusiasts, there is life and hope during winter. You just have to know where to find it. It’s waiting for you within the nurturing confines of the giant, polished metal 1955 Ford Thunderbird hood scoop that is… AMERICA’S CAR MUSEUM. Oh sure, there’s Scottsdale. But ACM is also warm and dry and filled with neat cars. Sounds a lot like Scottsdale to me.

Sandra Button, Chairman Pebble Beach Concours de’Elegance Carmel, California Gill Campbell, CEO/General Manager Mazda Raceway Laguna-Seca Monterey, California John J. Carlson, CEO National Association of Antique Automobile Clubs of Canada Corp.

Belcarra, British Columbia, Canada Rick Eagen, Partner/Controller AAA Interstate Transportation, LLC Evergreen, Colorado Rod Egan, The Worldwide Group Kirkland, Washington Robert Falleur, Auto Restoration Street Rod Builder and Collector Portland, Oregon Keith Flickinger, Owner Precision Motor Cars, Inc. Allentown, Pennsylvania Mark Gessler, President Historic Vehicle Association Potomac, Maryland Alan Grant, Principal LARGE ARCHITECTURE Los Angeles, California Gerald Greenfield, Chief Judge Pacific Northwest Concours d’Elegance Presented by AMERICA’S CAR MUSEUM Lake Tapps, Washington Ken Gross, Automotive Journalist Guest Curator, AMERICA’S CAR MUSEUM Hamilton, Virgina Paul Hageman, Automobile Enthusiast Kirkland, Washington Peter Hageman, Founder Suite 200 Automobile Collection Kirkland, Washington Paul Ianuario, Senior Curator BMW Museum Reedville, South Carolina John Lyons, CEO Hartford Land Ventures, LLC West Hartford, Connecticut Al McEwan, Founder Suite 200 Automobile Collection Kirkland, Washington Mark McKee ACE Cafe North America Leawood, Kansas Bruce Meyer, Enthusiastic Collector Beverly Hills, California

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

Glenn Mounger, Former Co-Chairman Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance Bainbridge Island, Washington

Carl Bomstead Writer, Automobilia Expert

Thomas L. Bryant Editor Emeritus, Road & Track

Keith Martin Publisher, Sports Car Market

Matt Stone Executive Editor, Motor Trend Classic

Michael T. Phillips, Financial Consultant AXA-Advisors Seattle, Washington

Peter Brock Car Designer, Writer and Photographer

McKeel Hagerty CEO, Hagerty Insurance

Sandra Button Chairman, Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance

Bill Warner Chairman, Amelia Island Conours d’Elegance

Richard Rurak, President Inos Automation Software, Inc Plymouth, Michigan

OpenRoad is the membership magazine published by The Harold E. LeMay Museum. America’s Car Museum® is a trademark of The Harold E. LeMay Museum. The LeMay– America’s Car Museum is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation. All membership fees, contributions and sponsorships are tax-deductible.

Museum Administration: David Lowe Madeira, President & CEO | Dominic Dobson, Chief Development Officer Scot Keller, Chief Curator | Paul Miller, Chief Operating Offficer | Valerie O’Shea, Executive Assistant to the President & Chief Executive Officer | Keith Flickinger, Curator of the Collection Please Address Correspondence to LeMay– America’s Car Museum/OpenRoad, 2702 East D Street, Tacoma, WA 98421 Phone: 253.779.8490 Toll Free: 877.902.8490 Fax: 253.779.8499 Website: www.lemaymuseum.org Not all of the automobiles depicted in OpenRoad are part of the ACM Collection. Some of the photographs were chosen in order to illustrate or enliven a featured story while others were selected purely for their artistic merit.

Scott W. Stubbs, President/CEO H.B. Stubbs Company Detroit, Michigan Tim Van Hoof, Director of Marketing State Farm Insurance Companies Bloomington, Illinois Bill Warner, Chairman Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance Jacksonville, Florida Todd Wells, General Manager Global Marketing Operations Microsoft Redmond, Washington Hans Wurl Vintage Racing Motors, Inc. Redmond, Washington

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SIGNPOSTS

SAVETHEDATE December 7 Member Appreciation Day America’s Car Museum

The Haubs Pay a Visit Erivan and Helga Haub stopped by on a recent visit to Tacoma from their native Germany. The Haubs have long been among ACM’s most involved and generous supporters. The Museum’s unique multipurpose show field, a stunning example of that support, bears their name. The Haub Family Field provides ACM something few other museums possess—green grass and fresh air.

December 13 - 24 “12 Days of Christmas” Holiday Celebration America’s Car Museum December 16, 6-9 pm Movie Night / Dust to Glory Club Auto Kirkland

Museum supporters Erivan and Helga Haub.

ACM is a Road Trip Magnet

Visitors on their way to the Cape Horn Rally.

AMERICA’S CAR MUSEUM continues to attract people taking part in ‘epic’ road adventures.

We’ve seen an Austin-Healey 100 on a cross-country cancer awareness tour and a couple in a ‘30s vintage Austin Seven on their way down to Tierra del Fuego, Chili.

The latest of these intrepid travelers stopped by this past summer. The ride… a RHD 1938 Chevy, the destination… the 2013 Cape Horn Rally.

Mini Goes to Lucky Raffle Winner Cami Apfelbeck of Poulsbo, WA has a cool new ride… a Chili Red and Carbon Black MINI Cooper S courtesy of AMERICA’S CAR MUSEUM and Puget Sound MINI. “I brought my husband to the Museum for Father’s Day this year. We almost left without entering the raffle but decided to turn around,” said Apfelbeck. “We never win anything but figured it was for a good cause.”

“It’s tradition for MINI owners to name their Mini Cooper S winner Cami Apfelbeck. cars. I think Cami may want to consider naming hers LUCKY!” joked Manfred Scharmach, CEO and President of Puget Sound MINI after drawing Cami’s name from over 1,950 tickets. “Sponsors like Puget Sound MINI continue to make it possible for us to support the needs of the Museum through fundraising,” said Dominic Dobson, Chief Development Officer at ACM. “Our vehicle raffles have been extremely popular with the public, and we hope to be able to continue them annually.”

January 12 - 15 Arizona 500 Tour Hosted by Club Auto Colorado Scottsdale / Phoenix, Arizona January 12 - 19 Arizona Auction Week Various Venues Scottsdale / Phoenix, Arizona January 11 Volkswagen Exhibit Opening & Member Reception America’s Car Museum January 18 - 26 North American International Auto Show Cobo Center / Detroit, Michigan February 14 Member Appreciation Day America’s Car Museum For additional information, visit the ACM website “Events” link at www.lemaymuseum.org.

Member Benefit/Discount Applies

ACM Supports Americans in Uniform In support of the local military community, ACM has executed a two-year joint partnership with Joint Base Lewis McChord for 20132014. As part of the agreement, the ACM hosted Military Appreciation Weekends Oct. 11-14 and Nov. 8-11. Military members and their families received complimentary admission to ACM, furnished by JBLM’s Office of Morale, Welfare, and Recreation. In exchange, ACM received advertising and event opportunities at JBLM over the two-year period. We’re excited to be able to support our local heroes!

A Correction is Due

Member Appreciation Days We love our members and to show our thanks for your support, we’ve set aside time to share the love with you on Saturday, December 7th and Friday, February 14th. Join us in Club Auto from 2-5pm for food & beverages. Special member benefits that day include double discounts in the ACM Gift Store and at Classics Café.

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Mistakes are made and in the summer 2013 issue, we made a “Duesey.” The caption on the lower photo on page 9 should have read, “Dr. Fred Simeone receives congratulations on his award from David Madeira (left) and Gary Gartner.” Our apologies gentlemen.

2nd Kirkland Concours at ACM Wows the Crowd The 2013 U.S. Bank Kirkland Concours d’Elegance at LeMay– AMERICA’S CAR MUSEUM held Sunday, September 8 was a smashing success. A light morning mist soon gave way to warm sunshine as the Haub Family Field filled with an outstanding array of automotive rarity and beauty. Eleven judged classes covered cars ranging from classic Brass Era to stock and modified Woodies.

Best of Show honors went to David and Adele Cohen’s 1933 Alfa Romeo 6C 1750 GS Figoni Coupe shown here receiving the award.

The win is the latest in an impressive history of concours trophies —gathered on two continents. Days after taking first place in the historic Mille Miglia motoring event, the 6C captured Best of Show

by Public Referendum, Best in Show by Jury and the Group Italia Trophy at the 2012 Villa d’Este Concorso d’Eleganza. It was next shown at the 2012 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, where it picked up an award for the Most Elegant Sports Car.

ACM Revs Up Educational Programs A commitment to learning has long been an important part of ACM’s mission. We’re kicking our educational offerings into high gear with an exciting menu of learning experiences. Each month, children, families and adults will find something to inspire and enlighten them. Programs include:

In addition to class winners, a number of special awards were handed out, among them the Junior Judges Award to Jon Shirley’s 1960 Ferrari California Spider. The People’s Choice Award went to Brent McKinley’s 1932 Auburn 100A Speedster. Siegfried Linke’s 1937 Mercedes-Benz 540K Special Roadster took home the Participant’s Choice Award while Bruce McCaw’s historic Le Mans winning 1952 Mercedes Benz W194 (shown at left) captured the President’s Award.

n Car Story & Playtime For children six years of age and younger together with their adult.

Second Tuesday of the month from 10:30am – 11:30am (Dec 10, 2013; Jan 14, Feb 11, March 11, April 8, May 13 2014) n Family Workshops Fourth Saturday of the month from 11:00am – 12:00pm (Dec 28, 2013; Jan 25, Feb 22, March 22, April 26, May 24 2014) n If Cars Could Talk: Adult Brown Bag Lunch Series First Tuesday of the month from 11:30 – 12:30 (Dec 3, 2013; Jan 7, Feb 4, March 4, April 1, May 6 2014) n Education Group Visits Designed to build connections between the classroom and real life experiences by exploring the world of the automobile. Groups can choose from self-explorations, focus group tours and workshops to build a custom experience. n Family Zone A place for children and adults to explore, play, and learn together.

This hands-on area offers fun for all ages and is guaranteed to enhance your family experience at AMERICA’S CAR MUSEUM. Information on costs and registration can be found at www.lemaymuseum.org. Pre-registration is advised for monthly programs occurring on a first come, first served basis. Advanced registration is required for education groups. To register, email education@lemaymuseum.org or call ACM Education Manager Debbie Kray at 253-683-3964.

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By David

Madeira President & CEO LeMay- America’s Car Museum

ACM MAPS A ROUTE TO THE FUTURE

EYES ON THE ROAD AHEAD

When, in 1891, F. W. Lambert drove his gasoline-powered tricycle through the streets of Ohio City, Ohio, the American automotive age was born.

By 1896, the Duryea Motor Wagon Company had produced 13 so-called “Buggyauts.”

Numerous other pioneers were building cars and launching the industry in America.

Shortly thereafter, the Chicago Times-Herald organized the first important American auto race, 55 miles of icy roads and horrendous conditions. A Duryea won, completing the course at an ‘exhilarating’ average speed of 5 mph. Only one other of the five cars entered, a European Benz, completed the course. “Speed” had captured the American imagination and the horseless carriage provided it.

Then as now, the automobile, with its attendant environmental and societal impacts, ignited controversy. But to the vast majority, the auto was decidedly “American”—an egalitarian force offering the possibilities of self-propelled power to the average American—something heretofore available only to the wealthy. At the dawn of the automobile age the car was a symbol of freedom of choice and adventure. Americans were ready for the automobile and the automobile transformed American life in the 20th Century.

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America’s Automotive Heritage is at Risk In this, the 21st century, the automobile remains a controversial economic and social force with passionate advocates on both sides of the debate. It’s impossible to ignore the accumulation of troubling signs threatening America’s automotive heritage:

n The federal government continues to tighten CAFE mileage standards—

n The former “Big Three”—Chrysler, Ford and GM—have largely

a move some see as aimed at eliminating gasoline -powered vehicles.

abandoned efforts to promote their heritage. There are hopeful signs

n America’s educational system, with its emphasis on “college prep curricula,” neglects the applied arts, crafts and trades. Young people are

that this is changing at GM, but in the meantime much of the heritage of automotive America is being lost.

steered away from careers in the “manual arts” and are encouraged to

n Our country’s cultural guardian, The Smithsonian, has dedicated

enter more “prestigious” and “higher paying” careers. Further driving this

museums for the arts, technology, history and the airplane. The car,

educational shift is the incessant emphasis on “glamorous” lifestyles in

arguably 20th Century America’s most important cultural icon, is largely

popular entertainment and advertising.

ignored. The limited number of examples in its collection sit in a dusty

n Technological advances have made modern automobiles more reliable

warehouse.

and longer lasting thus reducing a need for local repair shops. Hyper-

n Finally, most auto museums in this country are “vanity” projects show-

sophisticated safety and environmental components make it nearly

casing the collections of their founders. Static in nature and with no serious

impossible for the local mechanic or car owner to maintain or repair

educational purpose, they attract little attention, have limited cultural

today’s vehicles. Adding further “injury,” the move to alternative fuels such

relevance and generally collapse with the death of their founders with

asethanol is proving to be damaging to older cars.

collections sold and dispersed.

continued on page 12

ACM WILL CONTINUE TO GARNER VEHICLES OF EVERY TYPE, FOREIGN AND DOMESTIC Photo Courtesy of Michael Craft

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THE GOOD NEWS All is Not Lost; Americans Remain Passionate About Their Cars

In spite of the forces arrayed against the automobile and its use, we, as Americans, remain passionate about the joy cars bring to our lives. n Car clubs of every brand, vintage and class thrive at local, regional and national levels—Model As, Corvairs, Vettes, MGBs, Jaguars, Mustangs, low-riders, tuners—the beat goes on and on. n From Main Street in small town USA to grand venues like Pebble Beach; cruise-Ins, show & shines, concours, drive-in movie nights and club meets add fuel to the passion Americans feel for their cars. n Auto-based TV shows can be found on channels like History, Velocity, Discovery and ESPN. Films such as Rush and Snake & Mongoose are joining the Fast & Furious franchise in theaters. n It’s the auction scene which may, more than any other area of the enthusiast community, demonstrate the power the collectible auto still retains in our culture. January in Scottsdale draws hundreds of thousands of enthusiasts and spectators to multiple auction venues where hundreds of millions of dollars change hands. Tell those who gather in Monterey each August for the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, the races at Laguna Seca and The Quail Gathering that the auto is dead. Gooding, RM and Bonhams hammered home over $350,000,000 in sales in one weekend this past August.

ACM’s VISION:

To be the World’s Foremost Private Auto Museum It is within this context that LeMay– AMERICA’S CAR MUSEUM entered the world stage when its doors opened on June 2, 2012. USA TODAY called the opening “one of the 8 most important cultural attraction openings in the world” recognizing the fact that ACM was not just another “vanity project.” USA TODAY, The NY Times, Auto Week, Sports Car Market and countless periodicals across the world published more than 1,000 articles about the Museum’s opening. They did so believing that ACM would relentlessly pursue its commitment to fill a real cultural void by promoting America’s automotive heritage.

The columnists were right. In its first year, ACM attracted nearly 250,000 visitors from all 50 states and 27 foreign countries. They came for the ever-changing exhibits and events that provided a wealth of experiences in celebration of America’s love affair with the automobile.

Today, we unabashedly declare our goal to be the world’s foremost, private automotive museum—a vibrant center for the enthusiast community worldwide. Corporate museums promote their heritage and their brands. Most private museums in the country are created to showcase the collection of their founders or to preserve the history of a region, a single marque, or a brand. The vision of AMERICA’S CAR MUSEUM is more ambitious than that of traditional museums.

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1.

Preserve America’s Automotive Treasures

In addition to the core Harold E. LeMay Collection, ACM will continue to garner vehicles of every type, foreign and domestic, that have played a significant role in the life and psyche of Americans. The good, the bad and the ugly all tell their stories at ACM. The Museum will partner with The Historic Vehicle Association, the other national entity committed to preserving America’s automotive treasures.

Together, HVA and ACM will identify “vehicles that matter,”create a national registry and archives for such vehicles and seek to find permanent homes for those truly at risk.

2.

Promote America’s Automotive Heritage

There is no Smithsonian for the automobile. ACM will assume that role with a constantly changing calendar of exhibits, events and educational programs. Additionally, the Museum’s expanding, national Club Auto facilities are creating a network of enthusiasts enjoying each other’s company and auto-related activities.

In partnership with the Detroit, New York, Washington DC and Seattle Auto Shows, ACM will promote automotive heritage in the context of the modern automobile and today’s culture. Allied with HVA, we will promote driving events, exhibitions, and educational programs. Together, we will work to protect the right to use vintage vehicles in modern roles and the provision of appropriate fuels to do so. Additionally, ACM will continue to offer its world-class venue to the automotive industry as a fitting showcase for new product, design and technical innovations.

As proud patron of “The Pacific Northwest Concours d’Elegance,”and partner with Pebble Beach and Amelia Island, AMERICA’S CAR MUSEUM ensures that vehicles of the classic era will continue to be presented to the public and enthusiast community alike.

3.

Offer Serious Automotive Education Programs

Most museums offer a variety of K-12 educational programs to boost attendance and interest families in membership. ACM recognizes the importance of such efforts and with its Educational Resource Center and Family Zone offers a variety of programs for school groups, Boys and Girls Clubs, Scouts and families. These are serious efforts led by a professional staff with curriculum designed to augment public school offerings and aid in the learning of mathematics, science and art.

Yet, more critical to a mission to preserve America’s automotive treasures is the training of young people for careers in automotive preservation and restoration. The skills of the craftsmen and trades are being rapidly lost.

Careers in today’s auto industry involve learning computer diagnostics and replacing mechanical “units” rather than fundamental mechanical skills.

Even the tools necessary to maintain vintage vehicles are being consigned to history.

The collector community needs an entity committed to training young people in those trades before the remaining skilled professionals vanish.

In January 2014, ACM will announce a major initiative to train young people for careers in automotive preservation and restoration. It will be a nation-wide, perhaps international, effort to ensure that the skills critical to preserving America’s automotive treasures are not lost and that young people are encouraged to enter these important trades. Key to this initiative will be the development of scholarships, internships, educational institution partnerships, a professional registry and collector seminars.

4.

Attaining The Vision

It is this admittedly ambitious vision to place ourselves at the center of automotive culture that distinguishes AMERICA’S CAR MUSEUM from all other private museums in the nation. This vision is of great importance to all those passionate about our shared automotive heritage. Given proper leadership, strategic planning, dedicated implementation and with support from members, corporate sponsors and other donors, we will see this vision realized in the next few years.

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MEMORY LANE ACM’s “Second Season” Summer

AMERICA’S CAR MUSEUEM is less than two years old and yet, has already amassed a decade’s worth of memories. Though we usually feature the musings of ACM members, “institutional memory” is certainly a topic worthy of inclusion. If we assume the autocentric season, at least in the Pacific Northwest, consists of June through September, this past summer was, without question, memorable to the max… as this photo gallery aptly demonstrates.

Classic motorcycles descended on the ACM campus for August’s The MEET at America’s Car Museum – A Vintage Motorcycle Festival and road tour. The event’s expanding “buzz” within the riding community is drawing participants

Some friends, a pizza and a Drive-In Movie on the grass of Haub Family Field... a perfect and popular way to spend a summer evening.

Wheels and horsepower of a different sort, the famous Budweiser Clydesdales made an appearance at a summer Cruise In. ACM members, “The Seattle Cossacks” delighted the crowd at the Vintage Motorcycle Festival.

A gorgeous early September day greeted the 11th Annual Kirkland Concours d’Elegance. The event attracted a stellar collection of some of the world’s most beautiful and prized automobiles. (see additional coverage on page 9).

August 9 – 11 saw three of the most iconic concept Corvettes stop by for an exclusive 3-day showing while on their way to the Pebble Beach Concours.

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ON EXHIBIT FROM AESTHETICALLY STUNNING CLASSICS TO BRUTALLY EFFICIENT TRACK CARS

O

ne of many things

you can count on at ACM

is discovering something new and interesting every time you stop by through-

60 Years of Vette

out the year. Revolving

Our thanks go out to those who placed cars on loan.

They are recognized in the exhibit.

exhibits are a big part of that excitement. A pair of

Types and years represented:

recently added exhibits are drawing thumbs-up from

1954 Convertible Coupe

visitors, “60 Years of Vette” and “Master Collector.”

1956 SR2 Photos by Jim Culp

1959 Custom Convertible Coupe

At ‘age’ 60, the Corvette continues its firm grip on the title “America’s sports car.” Things started with a bang this past August when three of the most historically significant Corvette concept cars made an appearance on their way to Pebble Beach. The resident exhibit graphically highlights the technical and stylistic evolution of the Corvette. Fascinating stuff!

1957 Fuelie

Our second in what will be a series of Master Collector

1960 Convertible Coupe 1963 Split Window Coupe

exhibits features the collect-

1963 Grand Sport Recreation

ion of Ken and Patty McBride.

1967 427 Convertible

This delightfully eclectic mix of vehicles represents a collection built on personal passion rather than detached historical formula. In the words of ACM Steering Committee member Glenn Mounger, “Ken was an amazing guy… he never met a car he didn’t like. We often

1969 T-Top 1972 Convertible 1982 Collector’s Edition 1990 ZR1 1996 Grand Sport

Special Edition 1998 Pace Car

Master Collectors Ken and Patty McBride 1932 Packard Convertible 1940 Dodge Coupe 1940 Mercury

Convertible Sedan 1953 Cadillac Eldorado 1956 Ferrari 410 Superamerica 1957 Mercury Colony

Park Wagon

1957 Mercedes-Benz

300SL Roadster 1958 Mercedes-Benz 220S 1958 Oldsmobile Fiesta

Station Wagon 1964 Porsche 356C Roadster 1966 Pontiac GTO Convertible 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass Convertible

2003 Z06 2005 Convertible 2013 Convertible

60th Anniversary Edition

joked that Ken’s favorite car was his next one.”

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MEMBERSHIP

Members drive AMERICA’S CAR MUSEUM

Images of a Fun-Filled Membership Year

By Diane Fitzgerald,

National Membership Development Director

For more information, contact Diane at diane.fitzgerald@lemaymuseum.org or call: Direct, 253-683-3972, Cell, 312-543-5732

AMERICA’S CAR MUSEUM is a gathering place where enthusiasts from around the world celebrate America’s love affair with the automobile. And boy, did we gather and celebrate in 2013!

Members and their guests participated in more than 40 events at the Tacoma campus and Club Autos (Kirkland and Colorado) that included Cruise Ins, Movie Nights, Member Appreciation Days, Member Sneak Previews and On The Road tours – each bringing members together and realizing the vision of creating the world’s foremost automotive museum. The fun meter was pegged at full tilt all season! Thank you for engaging with us and thank you for supporting the vision!

Here are a few snapshots from 2013... a picture perfect year!

Photos; from top, left to right: n

Keenon Kennedy & Jerry Greenfield sample wine at Reininger Winery in Walla Walla during our Club Auto Wine & Wheels Tour

n Members previewing the NASCAR exhibit n Member Appreciation Nights & exhibit previews were popular and well-attended n Wine & Wheels Tour – classic cars, superb wine, great food n Members enjoyed year-round discounts in Classics Cafe’ and the Museum Store n Cruise Ins and club gatherings were popular with members and fellow car enthusiasts n Our youngest ACM’ers arriving for a member exclusive event 16

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This Holiday, give the

GIFT OF MEMBERSHIP It keeps on giving ~ 24/7/365

As you know, a membership in America’s Car Museum is an “E” ticket to a year-round calendar of events and activities. This is the perfect time to give your friends and loved ones—or special clients and customers— an ACM membership. Order online by December 14th or purchase at the Museum’s Guest Services Desk through December 24th.

To order online, visit lemaymuseum.org.

FUEL FOR THOUGHT Charitable Planning with IRA’s

By Jim Barnyak, Regional President - Pacific NW Region BNY Mellon Wealth Management, official provider of financial services to ACM WHEN PUTTING TOGETHER A COLLECTION—BE IT FINE ART, ANTIQUES OR AUTOMOBILES —THERE ARE SOME IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS WHEN ACQUIRING, HOLDING AND TRANSFERRING COLLECTIBLES. THIS IS THE FOURTH IN A SERIES ON SOME OF THE TAX IMPLICATIONS YOU AND YOUR ADVISOR MAY FACE. IT IS MY GREAT PLEASURE TO SHARE THIS INFORMATION WITH THE MEMBERSHIP OF LEMAY– AMERICA’S CAR MUSEUM. IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS OR WANT ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, PLEASE DO NOT HESITATE TO CONTACT ME DIRECTLY AT 877.644.8800. Jim Barnyak

FOR CHARITABLY INCLINED INDIVIDUALS, THE MOST TAXEFFICIENT OPTION TO SATISFY PHILANTHROPIC GOALS MAY BE TO LEVERAGE IRA ASSETS

Charitable Planning with IRAs: Many Advantages, But Know the Rules

This material is provided for illustrative/educational purposes only. This material is not intended to constitute legal, tax, investment or financial advice. Effort has been made to ensure that the material presented herein is accurate at the time of publication. However, this material is not intended to be a full and exhaustive explanation of the law in any area or of all of the tax, investment or financial options available. The information discussed herein may not be applicable to or appropriate for every investor and should be used only after consultation with professionals who have reviewed your specific situation. Pursuant to IRS Circular 230, we inform you that any tax information contained in this communication is not intended as tax advice and is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, for the purpose of (i) avoiding penalties under the Internal Revenue Code or (ii) promoting, marketing or recommending to another party any transaction or matter addressed herein. ©2013 The Bank of New York Mellon Corporation.

All rights reserved.

While some investors would like to use their IRA to make charitable gifts while they are alive, there are rules with respect to using an IRA as part of a charitable gifting strategy. Some investors have the misconception they can withdraw money from an IRA and donate that amount to charity, fully offsetting the taxable distribution with a charitable deduction. In many cases that is neither possible nor financially advantageous.

Here is why:

Individual Retirement Account (IRA) assets are the largest component of the United States retirement market. Approximately two-thirds of millionaires own IRAs. In addition to favorable tax advantages for long-term asset accumulation, if an individual is charitably inclined, the most tax-efficient option to satisfy philanthropic goals may be to leverage IRA assets.

IRA Distributions During Lifetime

n IRA withdrawals before age 59.5 are subject to a 10% early

withdrawal penalty. There is no exception to the 10% early withdrawal penalty for giving the IRA distribution to charity. n There is a limit on the amount an individual may deduct as a charitable deduction. Generally, an individual’s income tax charitable deduction for a cash contribution is limited to 50% of the individual’s adjusted gross income (AGI.) A sizable distribution from an IRA to a charity may be deferred or lost due to the AGI limits on charitable gifts. n For certain higher income earners, the phase-out of itemized deductions (often referred to as the “Pease” limitation for the legislator who sponsored the rule) may reduce the value of the charitable deduction by 3% of the AGI above $300,000 for couples, and $250,000 for single filers, up to a maximum reduction of 80% in value.

n Some states (e.g., Massachusetts) do not allow an income tax charitable deduction, so state income tax may be due on the contribution of an IRA distribution to charity. n Large IRA distributions must be recognized as taxable income, which increases the individual’s AGI and may result in the loss of several valuable income tax deductions and exemptions that are tied to the amount of an individual’s AGI (e.g., medical deduction, casualty loss deduction, taxation of social security benefits, personal exemptions and miscellaneous itemized deductions).

Charitable IRA Rollover up to $100,000 Per Year Provides Limited Time Opportunity Originally enacted as part of the Pension Protection Act of 2006, the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012, signed by President Obama on January 2, 2013, extended the $100,000 IRA charitable rollover rules through 2013. As a result of the extension, an IRA owner who has attained age 70.5 is allowed to make a tax-free distribution from a traditional or Roth IRA on or before December 31, 2013 directly to organizations that qualify under Internal Revenue Code (“IRC”) Section 170(b)(1)(A) (i.e., a public charity). Because an IRA charitable rollover distribution will not be included in an IRA owner’s income, it is an extremely tax-efficient way of making a lifetime gift.

Furthermore, an IRA distribution to a charity where the IRA owner has an outstanding pledge will be treated as a qualified charitable distribution and not as a prohibited transaction, per Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Notice 2007-7. The Department of Labor, which has interpretive authority over the self-dealing rules, has advised the IRS that a qualified charitable distribution made by an IRA trustee directly to a qualifying charity will be treated as received by the IRA owner (i.e., it will not constitute self-dealing, a prohibited transaction).

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ROAD WELL TAKEN

Great American Road Trips

Central Oregon Coast “Pennant”

By Walt Tomsic, Managing Editor, OpenRoad, AMERICA’S CAR MUSEUM Start: Corvallis, Oregon Finish: Corvallis, Oregon Distance: 240+/- miles

2

3

4 1

Heceta Head Lighthouse

2

Fishing fleet in Newport Harbor

3

Rocky beaches & wildflowers of Yachats

4

SeaLion Caves

1

It may not have a missing Flight 19 or a mystic energy vortex linked to a rip in the fabric of space/time, but this “triangle” has a few things going for it. First off, maybe we should call it a “pennant” considering it has that little side trip down to the Sea Lion Caves. Whatever you choose to call it, this coastal day trip features cool curves, good eats and great views. Regrettably, what it also has—at least between Memorial Day and Labor Day—are legions of RVs, 5th-wheel trailers and pop-up campers… most of which are tethered to people who seem oblivious to the concept of pulling over and allowing others to pass. What part of “slow vehicle turnout” do they not understand… end of rant, back to drive.

You’ll start the tour early morning in Corvallis and head west toward the coast on Highway 34. It’s a curvy 64-mile leg that hops the coast range and drops you into Waldport. Resist the urge to grab breakfast here… better choices await 8 miles down the road in Yachats.

Continue south on 101 to Yachats and breakfast.

Want a full morning meal? The Drift Inn is your place. Prefer a latte and a pastry? You can’t beat the typically packed-with-locals Green Salmon.”

[Pronunciation alert: it’s Yah-hots … the “c” is silent and emphasis is on the second syllable.]

Now, as to why we added this southerly leg to the drive… three words; scenery and sea lions

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(unless of course “sea lions” is considered to be one word). 101 south out of Yachats ushers up some spectacularly rugged coastline. Be sure to stop at the Heceta Head Lighthouse and hope your digital camera is at full charge. It’s a good place for photo ops and a leg stretching stroll up to the lighthouse.

A few curvy miles to the south of Heceta lands you at Sea Lion Caves. Following the typical tacky gift shop gauntlet, a path with a fantastic view leads to an elevator that takes you down to the cave… a very large cave filled with lots of very stinky sea lions. Once you’ve had enough eau d’Zalophus Californanus, retrace your route back to Waldport but pass through town and continue north on 101 to Newport.

Once over the “movie star” bridge (see Trip Tips), watch for signs on the right directing you to the Bay Blvd. district—where Newport comes alive. It’s a working harbor so, in addition to shopping and dining, be prepared for fishing boats, fish processing plants and fishy smells.

For lunch, we recommend the “Rogue Ales Public House.” Their beers are first rate and the halibut fish-n-chips tasty.

After lunch and a stroll along the marina, it’s time for the return leg to Corvallis. Pick up Highway 20 and head east for 53 more miles of curves and coast range views. Beautiful!

Trip Tips* As you enter Newport, you’ll cross the bridge that played a role in the movie One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest. You remember the “doctors” fishing trip, don’t you?

I can remember as a child having our car plastered with a “Visit Sea Lion Caves” bumper sticker (whether you wanted one or not) every time we drove by. They’ve stopped doing it—no doubt under a restraining order —but the place is still kind of cool in a ‘kitchy/touristy’ kind of way.

If you plan on spending the night in Corvallis after what will definitely be an all day-tour, we recommend dinner at McMenamins downtown and lodging at the Holiday Inn Express on the river. Before you take off next day, be sure to grab breakfast at New Morning Bakery, a local’s favorite.

Everything is delicious and you won’t mind that the killer sticky buns will definitely… stick to your buns!

* These and other recommendations in the article are strictly comp-free… no special consideration asked for or accepted.

A variety of nautical-themed murals decorate the buildings along Newport’s Bay District.

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A U T O B I O G R A P H Y

Packard AMERICA’S CAR MUSEUM Collection

1939 Packard Super Eight Convertible Coupe

Words by Walt Tomsic , Managing Editor, OpenRoad / Photography by Michael Craft, - Cover and Autobiography

In 2006, AutoWeek Magazine asked its readers to choose which extinct automotive marque should be revived… named among the top four, “Packard.”

Early in its life, Packard was seen as an aspirational brand—one of the three “Prestige Ps” (the other two being Peerless and Pierce Arrow). Prior to 1950, Packard outsold Cadillac as a favored chariot of the moneyed set. Today, the name “Packard” is revered among collectors and the marque’s enthusiast clubs continue to thrive worldwide.

A gift from Nicola Bulgari to commemorate ACM’s grand opening, this particular example is among the very finest and ranks as one of the Museum’s premier acquisitions. As these photos attest, the car seems perfectly and appropriately at ease within the patrician confines of the Bloedel Reserve. (see sidebar on page 23) Purchased by Mr. Bulgari from well-known East Coast collector Bernard Berman, the car had been previously restored to a very low standard.

Incorrect components included the majority of the drivetrain—engine and transmission, a non-original red exterior paint and modified interior. Further research revealed the dash to be from a V-12 model rather than the one specific to the 1939 Super 8.

A GIFT FROM NICOLA BULGARI TO COMMEMORATE ACM’S GRAND OPENING, THIS PARTICULAR EXAMPLE IS AMONG THE VERY FINEST AND RANKS AS ONE OF THE MUSEUM’S PREMIER ACQUISITIONS

A complete body-off restoration was commissioned at Precision Motor Cars, Inc. in Allentown, Pennsylvania. The car was painted the original color, a proper leather interior installed and correct material used to refashion the convertible top assembly. As is the case with most classic car restorations, the process best resembled a scavenger hunt or archeological dig. Fortunately, a used—and quite rare—‘39 Super 8 engine was located and rebuilt with original style Babbit bearings and porcelain coated manifolds. A bare Super 8 dash was also located. Salvage yards yielded proper gauges and accessory switches, all of which required extensive refurbishing.

Once completed, Mr. Bulgari put the car on the show circuit where it won numerous awards at such prestigious venues as the Packard Nationals and Amelia Island Concours. It was further honored with a First Senior Award from the Antique Automobile Club of America.

Not content with an exclusively show-circuit ‘queen,’ Mr. Bulgari enjoyed driving the car on several tours before donating it to ACM.

continued on page 22 OPENROAD 21

Packard

A condensed—and admittedly selective—history 1638 – Packard family arrives in the New World from England.

1889 – First Packard car built by James Ward Packard, his brother William Doud Packard and their partner, George Lewis Weiss, in the city of Warren, Ohio.

1900 – The Ohio Automobile Company founded to produce “Packard” autos.

1902 – Company name changed to the Packard Motor Car Company.

1924-1930 – Packard is top selling luxury brand and leads class in export sales.

1933 – Packard 12 introduced.

1935 – Company introduces its first sub-$1,000 car, the model 120, sales triple.

1937 – Packard goes further ‘down-market’ with 6-cylinder model 115C. Move weakens the brand’s image of exclusivity.

1941-1945 – Company stops making cars, joins war effort.

1945 – Packard resumes civilian car production. Styling and engineering stagnates in comparison to “Big-3,” luxury car image further erodes.

1950 – Sales drop to 42,000 units.

1951 – Redesigned Packards abandon prior “bathtub” styling, sales increase to 101,000.

1953 – Caribbean convertible introduced, outsells direct competition.

1939 Packard Super Eight Convertible Coupe New Price:

$1,878

No. Produced: 3962 Engine:

8cyl 320ci 130.hp @ 5200rpm

Compression: 6.45:1 Transmission 3-speed manual, column mounted “Handshift” Brakes:

4-wheel hydraulic drum

1956 – Quality issues cause sales to plummet.

Weight:

c.4530 lbs

1957-1958 – Packards basically become chrome bedecked Studebakers. Comedians refer to them as “Packardbakers.”

Wheelbase:

127” –Series 1703 inches

1959 – Packard nameplate vanishes from marketplace.

*Specification data can, and often does, vary from source to source. When in doubt, we use those most often cited.

1954 – Packard purchases Studebaker.

1962 –“Packard” removed from official corporate name… alles ist kaput.

Y H P A R G O I B O T U A

AUTO TRIVIA

The distinctive Packard family coat of arms badge first appeared in late 1928.

It depicts a cross flanked by four roses under what is either a pelican or a cormorant, depending upon which source you choose to believe. Because one adorns the hood, my money’s on the cormorant.

Prior to 1903, all Packards had a single-cylinder engine. Over the years, Packard was known for its innovative engineering including the modern steering wheel, the first production 12-cylinder engine and passenger car air-conditioning.

An original Packard, reputedly the first manufactured, was donated by a grateful James Packard to his alma mater, Lehigh University, and is preserved there in the Packard Laboratory.

The 40-acre 3,500,000 sq. ft. Packard plant in Detroit was designed by Albert Kahn. It included the first use of reinforced concrete for industrial construction in Detroit and was considered the most modern automobile manufacturing facility in the world when opened in 1903. Following Packard’s demise, the facility fell into disrepair and was put up for auction in September 2013. The $1-million minimum bid needed

THE ENGINE POWERED THE FAMOUS P-51 MUSTANG FIGHTER, IRONICALLY KNOWN BY ITS PILOTS AS THE “CADILLAC OF THE SKIES.”

would just cover back taxes. Unsubstanciated web-blog posts are reporting numerous failed purchase attempts.

In 1939, Packard introduced its “Econo-Drive” overdrive system. Able to be engaged at speeds over 30 mph, it was claimed to lower engine speed by 27.8%.

During World War II, Packard built Merlin aircraft engines under license from Rolls-Royce.

The engine powered the famous P-51 Mustang fighter, ironically known by its pilots as the “Cadillac of the Skies.” Packard also built marine engines for use in PT boats.

In the late 1950s, Studebaker-Packard was approached by enthusiasts asking that the French Facel-Vega Excellence 4-door hardtop be rebadged as a ‘Packard’ and sold in North America.

The idea was rejected when Daimler-Benz threatened to pull out of its 1957 marketing and distribution agreement with the company.

In 1995, Canadian couple Roy and Barbara Gullickson purchased the rights to the Packard name. It was offered for sale in 2008 for $1.5- million.

To my knowledge, there were no takers.

Michael Craft, ACM’s official photographer, created these striking photographs. To see more of his work visit www.michaelcraftphotography.com.

We wish to extend our thanks to the spectacularly beautiful Bloedel Reserve for allowing us to stage this, and the previous MG-TD, photo shoot on their grounds. Located on Bainbridge Island, Washington, the 150-acre Bloedel Reserve is internationally renowned for its natural woodlands, landscaped gardens, reflection pool, and the Bloedel’s former French Country Chateau-style estate. The Bloedel Reserve is open to the public year-round Tuesdays-Sundays. For more information visit bloedelreserve.org

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GUEST EDITORIAL

Corvette Sting Ray / Genesis of an American Icon

By Peter Brock

Former ACM Steering Committee Member

T

oday’s fabulous new 2014 C7 Corvette is the culmination of a few, rare, inspired ideas that occurred in the fertile minds of several passionate designers and engineers during the past six decades. GM’s famed lead designer, Harley Earl, created the first Corvette in 1953. His visionary and flamboyant successor, Bill Mitchell­—along with Mitchell’s contentious partner Zora Arkus-Duntov—formulated the exciting template for each succeeding variant in 1957. As a young designer at GM at the time, I was lucky enough to work beside Mitchell, originally in secret, on what would ultimately become the ‘63 Corvette Sting Ray. With its 50th anniversary this year I was urged to tell the inside story, from the secrecy to the powerful personalities involved from the car’s inception in ‘57 to its debut in late 1962. Here are a few selected excerpts from that story detailing the original inspiration for what would truly become the “Genesis of an American Icon.”

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This sketch, dated November 22, 1957, caught Mitchell’s eye and established the basic look of the production Sting Ray.

It was the fall of ’57 when Mitchell returned from his probing tour of Europe to GM’s vast, new Eero Saarinen designed Tech Center in Warren. He’d brought with him a small packet of photos he’d taken earlier at the prestigious Turin Auto Show in Italy. Mitchell had gone to Italy both as GM’s ambassador of goodwill to the Italian design industry and also to evaluate the latest trends that might influence future product from America’s largest and most important auto manufacturer….

When Mitchell, unexpectedly and untypically alone, strode into Studio B on that humid fall day he casually greeted our studio head, Bob Veryzer, sat down at one of our drawing boards, pulled off his jacket and motioned that we should join him. …He then proceeded to show us the photos he’d taken in Italy….

There were various shots of Alfa Romeo’s radical but already yearold Disco Volante (Flying Saucer) concept and numerous others of tiny, small-engined streamliners, mostly Fiat or motorcycle-engined recordbreakers built by Abarth, Farina and Stanguellini….

© Peter Brock 2005

Above photos © 1978 General Motors

Wind tunnel testing the Sting Ray coupe. Peter Brock (L) with Bob Veryzer next to clay model showing size, shape and details.

We’d never seen anything like these forms and were intrigued by Mitchell’s obvious interest in them…. The Alfa Romeo Disco GT coupe and svelte record breaker variations, although completely different in purpose, were similar in general form with all variants using a crisp or tightly radiused belt-line to separate their smooth upper and lower surfaces.…

Mitchell was obviously intrigued with the possibilities of adapting these strong design cues as part of his “new look” for something he hadn’t yet divulged. (Page 66) Mitchell was planning a totally new, second-generation production Corvette (the C2) and he wanted us to participate! (Page 67) Editor’s Note: If anyone is qualified to recount the genesis of the iconic Corvette Sting Ray, it is Peter Brock. Not only was he there, at age 19 he penned the sketch that spawned the design template for the car. A former member of ACM’s Steering Committee, Peter went on

to notch a record of achievement nothing short of amazing. His exploits with Shelby and the Daytona coupe are well celebrated. What are less known are his successes as a hang-glider designer, racing team owner, educator and journalist/photographer. Today, when not covering automotive events worldwide, Peter and his lovely wife/business partner Gayle reside in Henderson, Nevada.

Corvette / Genesis of an American Icon is now available for purchase at bre2.net or amazon.com. The 144 page–printed in the USA–hard-back book is filled with rarely seen photos, sketches and a detailed history of the Sting Ray, “America’s Sports Car.”

DISCO VOLANTE (FLYING SAUCER) HAD AN OBVIOUS INFLUENCE ON THE 1963 STING RAY

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1965 Lotus 35 F-18

Michael Craft Photography

Thank you to Our Founders Club Sponsors

“lifestyle on wheels magazine”

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Information current as of 11-4-2013

Administrative: 2702 East D Street, Tacoma, Washington 98421 Phone: 253.779.8490 Toll Free: 877.902.8490 Fax: 253.779.8499 Website: www.lemaymuseum.org

L EMAY-A MERICA’S C AR M USEUM

Presents

C e l e b r a t i n g A m e r i c a’s l o v e affair with the automobile

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