1967 Custom Speed Racer Mach 5 go-kart

• Scaled go-kart version of the iconic Mach 5

• Made famous in the 1960s Japanese anime series Speed Racer

• 1 of only 5 built

The Speed Racer Japanese anime series ran on Saturday mornings from 1967-1968 for 52 episodes. Like the Batmobile, the Mach 5 is arguably more recognizable than its driver and has endured for decades as a favorite of car or anime fans around the world. The Mach 5 is immediately recognizable by the red "M" emblazoned on the hood in attribution to Speed Racer's father "Pops Racer," Daisuke Mifune, whose company built the Mach 5 for his son...as the story goes. 

This is a fully functional gas-powered scaled version of the iconic Mach 5! Hollywood originally commissioned this beautiful hand-built Speed Racer Mach 5, this is the last remaining example of only 5 ever produced. Accessorized with a toy helmet and jacket. This iconic little race car was selected by Neiman Marcus for the annual "Christmas Book."

The example offered here is built to the highest standards of the craft. In the words of the builder, "The parts you don't see are as nice as the parts you do see." The hand-laid fiberglass body sits on top of a custom Rupp racing chassis. The chassis is powder-coated bright red with a chrome steering shaft, linkage, and stainless fasteners. The car is equipped with drum brakes and is powered by a Honda GX-120 motor. There is a custom engine-turned dash with faux gauges and a racing-style on/off toggle switch.

The upholstery is sewn from European leather and the bright white body is painted with a 2-stage base coat / clear coat and is finished with a Lexan windshield. The power is delivered to the rear wheels by a centrifugal clutch and is set up for a top speed of approx. 20 mph. The package came with a kid's Mattel helmet and Speed Racer jacket.

*Excerpted from Mecum Auction catalog, Kissimmee, FL, January 11, 2021, Lot 184.1.

Specifications

Chassis: Rupp go-kart racing chassis with custom fiberglass body

Engine: Honda GX-120, 122cc, gasoline

Power: 3.2 hp @ 3600 rpm

Transmission: Centrifugal clutch

Brakes: Drum brakes

Top Speed: 20 mph