New Project! Full Size 1989 Batmobile Project

[knightdriver2001]

I was lucky to find and have delivered this 1989 Batmobile fiberglass body on May 8th.
The body was pulled from original molds. Granted the molds are old so there are a lot
of flaws and issues with the fiberglass. But not a problem. Nothing I can't handle.

 

[knightdriver2001]

Going to tackle the bodywork as soon as I was done with this KITT replica for a client.

 

[knightdriver2001]

Bodywork in progress. Lots of sanding needed to make this thing smooth.

 

[knightdriver2001]

Got most of the front primed so I can see what is left to be filled in and trimmed up.

 

[knightdriver2001]

In the last few months, I have been collecting parts needed to get this completed. No chassis yet but making headway on other stuff.

So far I have the back afterburner, The custom exhaust tips, seats, rear rims and tires (need fronts still). and a bunch of other goodies.

 

[knightdriver2001]

I've also started making accurate interior dash panel sets that are very close to the real deal.
I did about 6 months or research and design on these. Starting the actual dash board itself
too. Early progress still on this.

 

[Snow Builder]

Can I be you when I grow up?

Looks fantastic so far, looking forward to following your progress.

 

[Ron]

I'm going to enjoy watching you build this wonderful toy

 

[goldcylon]

Wow impressive

 

[enterprise0216]

Awesome you were able to get the body this car does stand out! Look forward to seeing your progress on the build like everyone else.

 

[Rondesmo]

Outstanding job!!!

 

[knightdriver2001]

Also got an exact steering wheel as well as a nice replica of the Throttle Quadrant used in the original car.

 

[expo180]

What a build!

 

[knightdriver2001]

Finally found a set of rear rims to go with the tires I got. Finding these rims are next to impossible these days. Especially ones that are 14 inches wide. Big rims and tires on the back of this thing. On a positive note, I got both back tires for $75.00. Used but still in good shape. Can't find them normally either. Next up, finding matching front ones.

 

[Rondesmo]

Please don’t make the same mistake than all the replica whe already saw.
Do not leave the rims silver, paint it dark or black.

 

[knightdriver2001]

Please don’t make the same mistake than all the replica whe already saw.
Do not leave the rims silver, paint it dark or black.

Oh don't worry about that. Silver is not my thing. Just waiting to find a front set of rims before I tackle the color.

 

[Jamesfett]

I don't envy you, envy you, respect you, hate you, love you, and wish you well/harm all at the same time. I hope that makes sense.

 

[Jamesfett]

Is this for a client or you? If it is for a client, screw him! Keep it. Hide it in a cave. Say it was stolen.

What are you going to use for an engine?

Will it have fire coming out of the rear jet exhaust?

Can you make it sound like the Batmobile, jet sound, etc.

Will it have a shooting grappling hook?

Will it have firing discs?

Will it have standing 180 degree turn around? Seriously on this one you should totally do it.

Can you please make the canopy open and close like in the film?

 

[Jamesfett]

Holy crap I forgot machine guns. Will it have pop up machine guns? If so make hinge opening covers. That was dumb to have them pop off. You would go through a lot of covers.

 

[knightdriver2001]

Is this for a client or you? If it is for a client, screw him! Keep it. Hide it in a cave. Say it was stolen.

What are you going to use for an engine?

Will it have fire coming out of the rear jet exhaust?

Can you make it sound like the Batmobile, jet sound, etc.

Will it have a shooting grappling hook?

Will it have firing discs?

Will it have standing 180 degree turn around? Seriously on this one you should totally do it.

Can you please make the canopy open and close like in the film?

Oh this is all mine. No more client builds after the last Knight Rider car I just finished.
I plan on making as much functional as possible but this will not be a quick project.

I'm expecting it to cost a boat load of cash. Most of this will be packed up and garaged
by next month. I'll continue to collect things over the winter as I can find them Spring
will begin phase 2 which will be locating a proper chassis, then Engine/tranny and so on
will come into play.

I doubt the 180 turntable will be done though. I've seen one person on youtube do it but
the logistics alone are hard to figure out as it is directly under the passenger compartment
which is already sitting a couple inched off the ground as is.