Even before the ‘official’ Batmobile made its debut in the mid-60s TV show, American enthusiast Forrest Robinson had created his own version based on the design in the comics. First registered in 1963, the restored car is now about to be auctioned…
A 2D icon brought to life
Using a 1956 Oldsmobile 88 as a basis, Robinson created a unique, hand-made body to replicate the design seen in the 1940s and 1950s comics. By the time the car was finished in 1963, it was not only road-legal – but also officially approved by DC Comics. Originally painted silver, Batmobile Mk1 was repainted in the familiar black and red livery for promotional purposes; once the car had completed a publicity tour, Robinson sold the car for $200 to fund a new business venture. It then lay abandoned in a New Hampshire field for around 50 years.
In 2008, the car was rediscovered and put through a comprehensive restoration, and it will now be sold off by Heritage Auctions on 6 December 2014 in Dallas. Bidding is set to start at $90,000 – however, the auction house is confident of receiving bids approaching the half-million-dollar mark.
Photos: Heritage Auctions
You can find several Oldsmobiles for sale in the Classic Driver Market.
