bantam history & stories
The first Bantams were built in Loves Park. At that time Dick was anxious to sell kits and welcomed buyers who wanted to actually come to his shop to build their own car where they could ask for assistance as it was needed. This is one of those cars. Over the years the owner has made a number of improvements including the addition of accessories that were not available in the '70's.
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"A COMPLETE COMPONENT CAR"
"With the Blakely Bantam, you'll find it's as much fun to drive past gas stations as it is to go around corners. On a fast track, or a slow expressway, you'll love the sporty, cocky Bantam. The Bantam was developed, built, and tested by the Blakely Auto Works, America's first and finest Pinto kit car manufacturer. Blakely has been putting out Bantams since 1972. Its dependability and durability have been proven by over 700 satisfied customers. Ask one, they'll tell you! It's the car of the past, present, and future-all in a sporty-like package that's built like a tank, rides like a limousine, and yet, still handles like a sports car should."
"Blakely makes a car and sells it as a kit, others make a kit and sell it as a car."
Blakely Sales Brochure (about 1978)
"With the Blakely Bantam, you'll find it's as much fun to drive past gas stations as it is to go around corners. On a fast track, or a slow expressway, you'll love the sporty, cocky Bantam. The Bantam was developed, built, and tested by the Blakely Auto Works, America's first and finest Pinto kit car manufacturer. Blakely has been putting out Bantams since 1972. Its dependability and durability have been proven by over 700 satisfied customers. Ask one, they'll tell you! It's the car of the past, present, and future-all in a sporty-like package that's built like a tank, rides like a limousine, and yet, still handles like a sports car should."
"Blakely makes a car and sells it as a kit, others make a kit and sell it as a car."
Blakely Sales Brochure (about 1978)
This photo of Dick (in the Bearcat) and Denny (in the Bantam), taken by Mike Knepper was published in the November 1975 issue of Road&Track Magazine ( pp. 51-53).
This 1974 Bantam is
Serial # 00007
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#00007 evolves into a serious race car
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Another beautiful Bantam heads to the track.
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NOTE: Following some significant improvements, the Blakely Bantam was sold as the "Hawk" in the 80's.
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