Brooks Stevens' Excalibur

From time to time, true gems appear at car auctions, captivating the minds of collectors and retro enthusiasts. One such lot is the unique 1962 Excalibur RS Roadster, designed by the legendary Brooks Stevens. On May 16, it will go under the hammer at Mecum Auctions.

Excalibur RS Roadster  



The 1962 Excalibur RS Roadster is a one-of-a-kind vehicle, designed by Stevens and brought to life by his friend Robert Shaw in the 1990s. It features modern elements such as scissor doors, power steering, and a 5.7-liter V8 engine. The car is based on the earlier 1961 Excalibur Hawk Coupe, which was built on a Studebaker chassis. The RS Roadster’s body is handcrafted from aluminum and mounted on a steel space frame. 



Under the hood, it boasts a 5.7-liter GM V8 engine with Edelbrock fuel injection, paired with a GM 700R4 automatic transmission. It’s equipped with Wilwood disc brakes, power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering, and a custom exhaust system. The unique roadster is finished in Mercedes-Benz Mystic Blue Metallic with red, white, and blue accents, adding to its striking appearance. 

More photos of this extraordinary car can be found in our gallery.


A Brief History of the Excalibur Brand



Excalibur was one of the pioneers of the automotive replica industry, producing cars styled after vintage models but built on modern chassis. The brand was founded in 1964 when Brooks Stevens, working for Studebaker, decided to create a car inspired by the classic 1920s Mercedes-Benz SSK. The first Excalibur prototype was built on a Studebaker Lark Daytona chassis and featured an Avanti V8 engine. The car quickly caught the attention of affluent buyers and became a symbol of luxury and style.



Excalibur cars were produced in limited series, adding to their exclusivity and appeal among collectors and bon vivants. One of the most popular models was the Excalibur Series I, which combined vintage aesthetics with powerful modern engines. Throughout the 1970s, the brand continued to evolve, offering convertibles and sedans. The company operated until 1997, leaving behind a legacy of unique vehicles now seen only at exhibitions or auctions.

But Brooks Stevens was not just an automotive designer. He had a hand in nearly everything that surrounds modern individuals, from everyday appliances and consumer products to trains and boats. Read more >>>