Stutz Blackhawk Prototype

The Stutz Blackhawk prototype, designed by Virgil Exner and constructed by Carrozzeria Ghia in 1969, marked the initial attempt to revive the defunct Stutz marque with a bespoke grand touring car. Commissioned by banker James O’Donnell, the project aimed to reintroduce Stutz as a symbol of American opulence blended with European craftsmanship. The prototype was based on a modified Pontiac Grand Prix chassis, retaining the mechanical underpinnings including the 455 cubic inch V8 engine and Turbo-Hydramatic transmission, while discarding the factory body in favor of a hand-formed steel and aluminum coachbuilt exterior by Ghia of Turin. The design of the prototype reflected Exner’s affinity for neoclassical styling, featuring an upright grille, exposed headlamps mounted on chrome pods, and an exaggerated deck housing a faux external spare tire. A long hood, short rear overhang, and intricate detailing throughout underscored its intended position as a statement of wealth and individuality. Interior fittings were bespoke, with extensive use of leather, wood veneer, and gold-plated trim. The car embodied the designer’s vision of grandeur, recalling the spirit of 1930s American luxury automobiles reimagined through the lens of postwar European coachbuilding. The prototype was presented on January 20, 1970, at the St. Regis Hotel in New York. Its reception among wealthy clients and collectors encouraged a limited production run, to be carried out in Italy. Though the prototype itself differed subtly from later production versions, it established the aesthetic and mechanical template that defined the Blackhawk series throughout the 1970s. Chassis details for the original prototype remain partially obscured, though it is believed to have borne a 1969 Pontiac VIN with Ghia bodywork applied directly. The prototype was reportedly retained by the Stutz company for promotional use before entering private ownership. At various points, it is known to have been associated with O’Donnell and possibly retained by corporate entities tied to the marque’s marketing. Its current whereabouts are not publicly documented, and it is presumed to exist in a private collection, though confirmation remains elusive. Photo courtesy of The Henry Ford.