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For Sale: 1982 Guanci SSJ Prototype

The Guanci SSJ was the ambitious creation of Chicago businessman John Guanci, who aimed to establish an American supercar. Development began in 1977, with the aluminum monocoque chassis crafted by Bob McKee, a well-regarded Can-Am race car builder. Former Chrysler designer Mike Williams was responsible for the car’s sleek fiberglass bodywork. Power initially came from Chevrolet’s 270 hp L82 V8, mounted amidships, giving the car impressive performance credentials for its era.


Two Guanci SSJs were completed in time for the 1979 Chicago Auto Show, showcased with an intended price of $54,000 and a proposed production cap of 50 cars per year. Unfortunately, the project encountered financial difficulties when one of Guanci’s key investors passed away, cutting the development funds needed to move forward. In 1982, an attempt was made to revive the SSJ, this time with a Buick 185 hp turbo V6, but no additional funding could be secured, and the project was ultimately abandoned.



This 1982 Guanci SSJ Prototype is now for sale on Facebook Marketplace in Bowling Green, Ohio for $48,000 as of October 31, 2024.


From the listing:

"This is the third and final Guanci SSJ prototype ever built. Recently refurbished to running order, it has only 208 miles and still retains its original paint. Built to higher standards than production vehicles, the prototype was originally powered by a Buick V6 in the early 1980s. In the 1990s, the original family of the company converted it to an Oldsmobile Aurora 4-cam V8 as an update. The monocoque chassis and platform were engineered by Bob McKee, known for his work with Howmet Turbine and McKee Racing, while the body design was created by Mike Williams of Chrysler, with consulting assistance from DeTomaso and Vector. This presents a rare opportunity to own an American mid-engine prototype car, perfect for concours events or RadWood gatherings. I am representing the car on behalf of the Genius Garage engineering educational program, so the buyer will make payment directly to the organization. Our society often prioritizes superficial accolades over genuine support for future endeavors, so this sale aims to fund programs that foster engineering education and innovation."


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