
FAST FACTS Vol. 1, Issue 13 – Speed Racer’s Mach 5
From Anime To The Big Screen, This Incredible Race Car Came Alive The Real Mach 5, is actually a real Mach 5, right down to
Junk Yard Car to Magical Dune Buggy
For two seasons starting in 1976, the Krofft Supershow featured a magical dune buggy called Wonderbug. This old, beat-up, “pieces-parts” vehicle had two personalities – one of a junk car named “SCHLEPCAR” (taken from the license plate) and second, when the magic horn is played – the supercar WONDERBUG!
In his supercar persona, Wonderbug was a Volkswagen-based Meyers Manx-clone today. It was a Dune Runner body, made by Dune Buggy Enterprises. Wonderbug had the T-Bird hood – one of three options for the Dune Runner.
The car had articulated “eyeball” headlights, and custom bumpers that resembled a mouth. When the car spoke in a mumbled voice, different bumpers were used to create facial expressions.
The rear seat area contained a box – often described as a “costume/wardrobe trunk” was actually concealing a hidden driver in scenes where the car drove itself. When Schlepcar talks (mumbles) his license plate moved up and down. When Wonderbug spoke, the front bumper moved.
The car also had a long fender-mounted radio antenna that had a gripping claw on the end of it. Wonderbug had the ability to fly when in supercar mode. Wonderbug used magnets and other gadgets to attract the bad guys. He could solve puzzles and help save people from evil.
During regular trips, the three teens, Barry, Susan, and CC, regularly run into trouble. But with the help of Wonderbug, they always saved the day.
From Anime To The Big Screen, This Incredible Race Car Came Alive The Real Mach 5, is actually a real Mach 5, right down to
Issue 19 • Engine & Transmission Tips That’s why we remanufacture engines and transmissions. Just because a part of a car fails, it doesn’t mean
Issue 14 • Engine & Transmission Tips Brakes are the most essential safety system in your car, as they stop your vehicle when necessary. Production
In the vast realm of pickup trucks, one name stands out as a true trailblazer: the Jeep Comanche. Born from the legendary Jeep Cherokee platform,
The Ford Econoline, also known as the E-Series, holds a special place in the automotive landscape as one of the most recognizable and versatile vans
Hey there, classic car buffs and Ford enthusiasts! Fraser Engines here, and we’ve got a real treat for you today—a deep dive into the legendary