1959 Kellison J-4R Coupe

1959 Kellison J-4R Coupe
Chassis no. 3970020
406ci OHV V8
4-Barrel 750 CFM Double Pumper Holley carburetor
497bhp at 6,000rpm
4-Speed Manual Close Ratio "Rock Crusher" Transmission
4-Wheel Disc Brakes
4-Wheel Independent Suspension

*Powerful 497bhp V8
*Unique American sports car
*California road registered track weapon
*Great high-speed rally car, and Ferrari Killer

THE KELLISON J-4R COUPE

The Kellison J-4 R was the brainchild of Jim Kellison, a veteran fighter pilot of the Korean War. After studying engineering at UCLA, he founded Kellison Engineering, which became one of the premier manufacturers of Fiberglass cars in the United States. The J-4 was his first production car and would be offered in turn key form for $6,700, more than $2000 over the price of a new Corvette

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

This particular Kellison was purchased new by SCCA executive director Don Rodimer. He would keep the car until his death, at which time it would pass to well-known racer and tour organizer, Rich Taylor, in 1985.

Mr. Taylor had the entire chassis rebuilt by Chassis Dynamics in Edison, New Jersey. It was further updated with a NASCAR style roll cage, 15-gallon fuel cell, and a multitude of clever safety features were added as well. The engine was prepared by Tom Lalinsky of Lalinsky Engineering. Running on a dynameter, this particular power plant has shown 497bhp at the flywheel, and 463 ft/lbs of torque at 4500 rpm, truly outstanding figures for a street engine.

Wishing to use the car in driver events, the car was made fully street legal. Lights, turn signals, and a windshield wiper were all installed to meet compliance. It has since been impeccably maintained and has taken part in the New England 1000, amongst other events. It has a full SVRA Group 4 logbook and is ready to compete in vintage events, or road rallies. Recently, the car has been serviced and further sorted with the suspension modifications and a thorough shakedown. The car is currently registered and titled in California, under the model year 1959.

Powered by an easy to maintain, powerful Chevrolet small block, and possessing great 1950s styling, this vintage Kellison is an exciting piece of 1950s Americana. Whether on the street, track, or show field, the cars dual purpose nature makes it and a great classic for any enthusiast.