A tribute to one of the most iconic and distinctive film cars of all time, the original Batmobile, will be the highlight of an auction taking place in the UK on June 2.
Original Batmobile replica
Enlarge PhotoA tribute to one of the most iconic and distinctive film cars of all time, the original Batmobile, will be the highlight of an auction taking place in the UK on June 2. The faithfully re-created car has been owned by Mark Perkins since it was completed in 1988 and is expected to raise the highest bid.
One of only three existing steel-bodied versions, Perkins’ Batmobile--complete with dashboard-mounted television, rear parachute pod and Batphone--is accompanied by an extensive clippings file, having made numerous promotional appearances, including the Batman stage show in the United Arab Emirates in 1993, and a number of showings alongside Adam West, star of the original Batman TV show.
Based on a Lincoln Continental chassis and built to a similar specification as the original car in the ‘60s, the car was finally completed in 1988, following input from renowned custom coachbuilder, Bill Chaplin.
Mark Perkins explained his reluctance to let the car go: “Classic cars, and this one in particular, should be driven to be enjoyed, and I’ve loved taking it on the road over the years. However, my work will leave me little time to do so in the future, and so sadly it’s time someone else derived pleasure of ownership.”