I to have been curious about where the star car Willy’s coupe from the movie went ? I do know something about , I was recruited as an extra in the movie . And have loads of stories from filming for 5 days at Baylands drag strip . Latest rumors say the car was sold from the estate of the late Mr. Castelli . Possibly to a local air charter company and was stashed in the corner of a hanger . Now some history, yes the car was fitted with the blown alcohol engine from Bill Hogues Willie and the poor boys funny car . The original car was build in a huge hurry ! Movie company just did not allow much time to do anything!! Got to meet all the cast and crew !! Had a blast doin it ! I think they paid me $500 for me and my front engine dragster .
Yes, Steve Costelli bought 3 Willys from the movie and ***embled his bracket, later Nostalgia Hot Rod Willys g***er. The car was a regular at all the west coast nostalgia meets for 25 years, eventually becoming the 'Worlds Fastest Street rod". https://hotrodwillys.com/ A couple videos of the car at Bakersfield Famoso drag strip.
I met Steve Castelli several years ago when I went to the Turlock swap meet. All I can say is that Steve was a real nice person, and I am glad to have met him. I had met Steve earlier at a "Good guys" meet, but I didn't get to talk with him as I did at Turlock.
The Jalopy Journal
