Summary

Gotham Garage re-creation of "Mach 5" as seen in the popular, anime-styled "Speed Racer" television series that aired from 1967 to 1968. From The Dr. Stewart A. Berkowitz Collection. Sold on bonded title.

Details

This 1989 Chevrolet Corvette is a re-creation of "Mach 5" as seen in the "Speed Racer" television series that aired from 1967 to 1968. An early and wildly popular Japanese manga series written and illustrated by Tatsuo Yoshida, Speed Racer was originally serialized in print in Shueisha's 1966 Shonen Book. Released in "tankobon" form by Sun Wide Comics and later re-released in Japan by Fusosha, "Speed Racer" was adapted into anime by Tatsunoko Production and 52 episodes aired on Fuji Television from April 1967 to March 1968, with the show aired in the United States in syndication at roughly the same time. Subsequently, the franchise was published in numerous media, and the TV show was rebroadcast to new audiences in 2008. The anime was later rebroadcast on Tokyo MX from July 1 to September 25, 2008, which heightened interest in a 2008 film adaptation. The main character of "Speed Racer," named Go Mifune, drove the technologically advanced Mach 5 that was finished in white with a large "M" on its hood, the logo for the Mifune family business, Mifune Motors, and a red interior. Although technically outclassed by its archrivals, the Mach 5 still manages to win most races, thanks to Speed's superior driving. Given Speed Racer's huge audience (40 million viewers during the 1960s-70s) and continued cultural relevance to fans of Japanese manga and anime, it comes as no surprise that Mach 5 replicas would be created and displayed. Built by Gotham Garage and based on a 1989 Chevrolet Corvette with approximately 50,000 miles at the time of purchase, this captivating "Speed Racer" Mach 5 replica was acquired by Dr. Stanley Berkowitz in January 2022 and inducted into his wonderfully curated collection of TV and movie vehicles and popular culture items. The interior is understood to have been refreshed by the prior owner. Presented as what a real Mach 5 should appear like, this custom "Speed Racer" replica includes authentically re-created Mach 5 and Mifune graphics, a sporting yet plush red interior with yellow seat accents, power door openers, a sound system and rear camera. Another fascinating touch is the motor-driven, blade-type front saw. The 350ci V8 engine and console-shifted automatic transmission are stock Corvette items, and the son of Dr. Berkowitz advises the car runs great. CARFAX shows General Motors manufacturer safety recall issued 10/01/1991: Safety belt retractors-right side; General Motors manufacturer safety recall issued 10/01/1991: Safety belt retractors-left side. From The Dr. Stewart A. Berkowitz Collection. **SOLD ON BONDED TITLE**