For Sale

Under the decklid lies the heart of this road-going predator—a robust 351 Cleveland V8 that delivers a symphony of power with every throttle blip. Mated to an Audi 5-speed transmission, this combination provides a thrilling blend of brute force and precision engineering, putting you firmly in control of an automotive legend. It’s raw, it’s exhilarating, and it’s everything a true enthusiast craves.

What We’re Looking At 
This 1969 Firebird is a stunning mix of original flair and tasteful upgrades. It’s got the looks, the power, and the pedigree to make any enthusiast swoon. Let’s dive into the details: 

Under the Hood 

Photos by Stephan Louis/CT Motosnaps

A Traceable 3-Owner History

A Brief History of the Austin Mini Mk1
The Austin Mini Mk1, designed by Alec Issigonis and launched in 1959, was revolutionary for its compact size, transverse-mounted engine, and front-wheel-drive layout. It was the product of an era when fuel efficiency became paramount due to the Suez Crisis, making small cars highly desirable. The Mk1's clever packaging, including the in-sump gearbox and 10-inch wheels, helped it become one of the most recognizable cars of its time.

A Life Well-Lived

A Storied Past
Originally purchased in 1968 by the famous British hairdresser Frank Fowden, this E-Type has a legacy as fascinating as the car itself. Fowden, a man who was well-connected with some of the world's most famous personalities, including Margaret Thatcher, Mick Jagger, and Hillary Clinton, was known for his exquisite taste—something clearly reflected in his choice of automobile.

It all started when Manny stumbled upon a chopped 1942 Chevy Cab at The Hot Rod Shop in Pretoria. The cab was in pretty decent shape for its age, and instead of going the typical route and fabricating a new chassis, Manny opted for a 2006 Mitsubishi Colt Pickup as the donor car for his creation.

With plenty of time on his hands, Manny jumped into the project with gusto, enjoying the freedom and creativity that comes with building a Rat Rod. What makes these builds so unique is their flexibility; you can mix and match parts from here, there, and everywhere.

Origins and Development
Kit Car Centre (KCC) emerged in the 1980s as a prominent kit car manufacturer in South Africa. Capitalizing on the global interest in replica cars, KCC decided to create their version of the revered AC Cobra. The replica aimed to capture the essence of the original while making it accessible to a broader audience.

Design and Engineering

Photos by Jan van der Walt

Performance and Engineering
Under the hood lies a brand-new 383 Stroker V8 engine, meticulously built by McNabs Engineering. This powerhouse delivers an exhilarating performance, complemented by a stainless steel exhaust system that sings a melodious tune when the engine roars to life. The Jaguar suspension, both front and rear, combined with disc brakes, ensures superior handling and stopping power. A universal cooling fan controller and aluminum radiator keep the engine running cool, no matter the conditions.

Heart of a Champion: The 1600 Kent Engine
Under the hood, the 1600 Kent engine roars to life with the kind of power that gets your adrenaline pumping. This isn’t just any engine – it’s been meticulously dressed up with Burton parts, giving it both a performance boost and a sleek, polished look. The fresh engine build means it’s as reliable as they come, running like a train and ready to dominate the track.

Transmission and Differential

A Storied History

This Chevy's journey began in the 1950s in Port Elizabeth, South Africa, one of the original Chevys built in that era. From there, it spent its career in the Karoo, around Oudtshoorn, where the dry climate preserved it remarkably well, leaving it with no rust at all. When the current owner purchased it from the original owners, it marked the beginning of an ambitious restoration project that would transform this classic into a show-stopping marvel.

Why It's a Masterpiece