SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2011
But many, especially those born after the first of those funny films were made, may be even more familar with the TV cartoon spin-off series that did the rounds in the 1970s and 80s.
The Pink Panther Show was as memorable for its opening titles as it was for the actual cartoons thereafter. Why? Well, firstly it involved some pretty catchy music – not a patch on Henry Mancini’s offering, admittedly, but a groovy tune all the same.
And secondly because it featured a spectacularly funky, futuristic pink car boasting a panther-like nose that, if the opening credit sequence is to be believed, was driven by a teenage boy – a definite inspiration to fledgling car fanatics at the time – who casually parks it at the roadside to let cartoon incarnations of Inspector Clouseau and the Pink Panther saunter out from under the gull-wing door.
As you read this, that very same vehicle is being auctioned online to coincide with the car’s appearance at the Chelsea Auto Legends Show, bidding closes –on Friday October 14th.
A true rarity, this one-of-a-kind automobile was created in 1969 by Hollywood’s master vehicle designer Jay Ohrberg, best known for having produced many of the world’s most coveted movie and television cars including KITT from Knight Rider, the DeLorean in Back To The Future, the Batmobile from the 1960s Batman series, the Batmobile from the more recent Batman films, the Dodge Charger from Dukes of Hazzard as well as Starsky and Hutch’s Ford Gran Torino among others.
It’s believed that Ohrberg owned the Pink Panther car until it was auctioned in 2007 when it was bought for £88,000 by the current owner. It is in totally original condition, though the seller says it would “benefit from some sympathetic restoration” as it is now 42 years old.
Interestingly, the engine was believed to be working when the vehicle was sold four years ago, but it’s apparently not running any more. Neither is the car street-legal. So if you know a good mechanic, have access to a private circuit and can find the £50,000 to £100,000 that auctioneers Robson Kay are expecting the vehicle to fetch, then you’ll be able to experience a drive that will literally tickle you pink.
For more information, including how/where to bid, please visit www.pinkpanthercar.com
The Pink Panther's car could be yours!
We are unashamed film buffs at MB&F and when it comes to classic comedy, it’s difficult to beat The Pink Panther series – the original set of movies that is. That combination of Blake Edward’s direction, Henry Mancini’s iconic music and Peter Sellers’ superb interpretation of the bungling Inspector Clouseau hits the spot every time.But many, especially those born after the first of those funny films were made, may be even more familar with the TV cartoon spin-off series that did the rounds in the 1970s and 80s.
The Pink Panther Show was as memorable for its opening titles as it was for the actual cartoons thereafter. Why? Well, firstly it involved some pretty catchy music – not a patch on Henry Mancini’s offering, admittedly, but a groovy tune all the same.
And secondly because it featured a spectacularly funky, futuristic pink car boasting a panther-like nose that, if the opening credit sequence is to be believed, was driven by a teenage boy – a definite inspiration to fledgling car fanatics at the time – who casually parks it at the roadside to let cartoon incarnations of Inspector Clouseau and the Pink Panther saunter out from under the gull-wing door.
As you read this, that very same vehicle is being auctioned online to coincide with the car’s appearance at the Chelsea Auto Legends Show, bidding closes –on Friday October 14th.
A true rarity, this one-of-a-kind automobile was created in 1969 by Hollywood’s master vehicle designer Jay Ohrberg, best known for having produced many of the world’s most coveted movie and television cars including KITT from Knight Rider, the DeLorean in Back To The Future, the Batmobile from the 1960s Batman series, the Batmobile from the more recent Batman films, the Dodge Charger from Dukes of Hazzard as well as Starsky and Hutch’s Ford Gran Torino among others.
It’s believed that Ohrberg owned the Pink Panther car until it was auctioned in 2007 when it was bought for £88,000 by the current owner. It is in totally original condition, though the seller says it would “benefit from some sympathetic restoration” as it is now 42 years old.
Interestingly, the engine was believed to be working when the vehicle was sold four years ago, but it’s apparently not running any more. Neither is the car street-legal. So if you know a good mechanic, have access to a private circuit and can find the £50,000 to £100,000 that auctioneers Robson Kay are expecting the vehicle to fetch, then you’ll be able to experience a drive that will literally tickle you pink.
For more information, including how/where to bid, please visit www.pinkpanthercar.com
