The history of Excalibur cars
The Excalibur car is a beautiful example of a classic retro vehicle featuring a design inspired by the 1920’s Mercedes Benz SS with a bit of modern engineering and American flair. The result is a bit ostentatious and an unlikely weekend stroller, however the vehicle has found a niche within the outer limits of luxury limousines. The car has gained a worldwide cult following as a wedding car in white or as the perfect boat for anyone looking to make a splash!
Automotive designer, Brook Steven’s was fascinated by the classic era of automotive design. This passion was what fueled his Gatsby-esque creations and eventually led the design of what would later become the Excalibur as a concept car for Studebaker in 1963. The concept car was displayed at several car shows in the USA and caught the attention of many. . The hype over this one-of-a-kind car soon turned into orders from wealthy sponsors around the world and the Excalibur was born. The Excalibur was factory built and underwent several major revisions in its early years, greatly improving performance and reliability, especially with regards to the chassis that was required for such a long car, which was eventually purchased from General Engines. Each year the Excalibur factory only made between sixty and eighty vehicles, which has added to their rarity and collectability today. The most ordered and produced cars were the 2-door Roadster; however, Excalibur also made a 4-door saloon, the ‘Phaeton’, which has become a hugely successful luxury car, used in films such as 101 Dalmatians and as the flagship of the limousine fleet. for Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas.
After a run of just 3,200 cars, the company finally ceased production in 1990, finally achieving perfection in the Series V Excalibur, its most luxurious yet. The company still operates with a limited ability to supply contemporary Excalibur car owners with parts, manuals and information.
The good news is that the current owner of the Excalibur Cars factory has not ruled out the possibility of a new line of cars. In fact, as recently as 2011, there has been talk of a revamped Excalibur of similar design. These plans are subject to financial backing, and for now, the company is creating parts to keep existing Excaliburs on the road, even going as far as planning refurbishment kits to replace what might be considered dated and worn interiors on some of the existing Excaliburs. older models still in circulation.