Fiberfab Jamaican: A Rare Breed of Kit Car

:Since their inception in the mid-1950s, kit cars have captured the imagination of automotive enthusiasts and do-it-yourself builders worldwide. Among this diverse group of vehicles, the Fiberfab Jamaican stands out as a particularly rare and alluring specimen. With its sleek lines, powerful engine options, and undeniable exotic flair, the Jamaican has become a coveted collectible and an object of admiration for sports car enthusiasts.

Origins and Design:The Fiberfab Jamaican was conceived in the fertile mind of Dick Jones, a talented engineer and businessman from California. In 1963, Jones established Fiberfab, a company specializing in fiberglass car bodies and components. Inspired by the exotic Jaguar E-Type, Jones set out to create a kit car that combined the allure of a British roadster with the practicality and affordability of American muscle.

The Jamaican debuted in 1964 and quickly gained traction in the burgeoning kit car market. Its sleek fiberglass body, featuring a pronounced hood scoop, rakish windshield, and Kamm-style rear end, exuded an unmistakable sense of speed and agility. The car's low-slung profile and wide stance further emphasized its sporty character.

Fiberfab Jamaican: a rare breed of kit car

by Paul Grant

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4191 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	27 pages
Hardcover	:	614 pages
Item Weight	:	2.13 pounds
Dimensions	:	6 x 1.31 x 9 inches

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Mechanical Specifications:Underneath the Jamaican's captivating exterior lay a robust mechanical foundation. Customers could choose from a variety of American V8 engines, ranging from the 283-cubic-inch small block to the formidable 427-cubic-inch big block. These engines provided the Jamaican with ample power and performance, enabling it to reach speeds in excess of 120 miles per hour.

The Jamaican's chassis was equally impressive. It utilized a lightweight steel backbone frame coupled with independent front and rear suspension. The front suspension was of a wishbone type, while the rear employed a coil-over-shock setup. This combination provided the car with excellent handling and stability, ensuring that its performance matched its striking appearance.

Production and Availability:Despite its popularity, the Fiberfab Jamaican remained a rare sight on the roads. Over a five-year production run, Fiberfab produced a mere 400 to 500 examples of the car. This scarcity has made the Jamaican a highly sought-after classic among collectors and enthusiasts.

Today, finding an original Fiberfab Jamaican in good condition can be a challenging task. The majority of surviving examples have undergone restoration or modifications over the years. However, the car's distinct design and undeniable charm have ensured its legacy as one of the most alluring kit cars ever produced.

Legacy and Significance:The Fiberfab Jamaican stands as a testament to the ingenuity and passion of Dick Jones and the countless enthusiasts who brought his vision to life. Its unique blend of American muscle and exotic flair has made it a timeless icon in the world of kit cars.

The Jamaican's influence extends beyond its own era. It inspired a number of subsequent kit car designs and helped popularize the concept of a high-performance, yet affordable sports car. Today, the Jamaican remains a highly prized collectible, embodying the spirit of automotive innovation and the enduring allure of the open road.

:The Fiberfab Jamaican is a rare breed indeed, a captivating blend of beauty, performance, and automotive nostalgia. Its sleek lines, powerful engines, and undeniable exotic flair have made it a coveted classic among collectors and enthusiasts alike. While its numbers may be few, the Jamaican's legacy as one of the most alluring kit cars ever produced is secure. It will forever hold a special place in the hearts of those who appreciate the thrill of a true automotive icon.

Fiberfab Jamaican: a rare breed of kit car

by Paul Grant

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4191 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	27 pages
Hardcover	:	614 pages
Item Weight	:	2.13 pounds
Dimensions	:	6 x 1.31 x 9 inches

FREE