1952 Muntz Jet
Frank Kurtis’ compact sports convertible design became something altogether different when Earl “Madman” Muntz acquired it in 1950.
Muntz lengthened the chassis and added luxury appointments, creating speedboat-inspired interiors with airplane-style instrumentation, rolled and pleated upholstery, and a fitted ice chest for drinks.
Hand-built in Glendale, California, and later in Evanston, Illinois, approximately 198 Muntz Jets were produced before the venture ended. Each featured highly tuned American V-8 engines (initially Cadillac OHV units, later Lincoln OHV engines) that delivered strong performance.
The combination of power, exclusivity, and Muntz’s aggressive marketing attracted Hollywood celebrities, reportedly including Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Mickey Rooney.
The Jet represented perhaps the first post-war American luxury GT, predating similar concepts from established manufacturers.
Source
