The GT5’s hinged rear deck opens wide , exposing an over-sized engine compartment and truck. The engine compartment will accommodate VW, Porsche, Corvair, or Mazda motors. Separated from the engine area by a firewall, the truck holds anything from luggage to scuba gear to groceries. Features like this make the Invader the first truly practical sports car kit.
I remember this car, and when I was 18 years old, sent away for the brochure. I dreamed of buying one and building it, but I didn’t have the know-how, or the money and I was saving for school among other things. I remember my Dad talking with me about buying a VW and turning it into a dune buggy when I was 14 or so, but he later discouraged me by saying how much work it would take to do it. My self-esteem was pretty fragile back then, and I didn’t pursue it.
I actually saw a guy driving a fairly unfinished one in Hollywood around 1981 or so, (where I worked at the time), and flagged him down and talked with him about it. He even took me for a ride in it. This thing was *right* on the ground. Needless to say, I was thrilled.
Opportunities that came and went. Pretty great concept. It’s a shame that the company didn’t flourish.
This car, however, was something I felt I could do – but never did. I do think about it from time to time. Would-a, Should-a, Could-a. LOL! AutoKit is long since gone.