Shiber realized he would have to incorporate readily available parts to hold the price down, so Z'd 1939-1941 Ford chassis were shortened to a 100-inch wheelbase. Turnkey models had rebuilt Ford transverse-leaf suspension at both ends and new 100hp Ford flathead V-8s (other engines could be installed as well). Reportedly at least one was fitted with a Willys six-cylinder engine. Shiber priced his new car at $2,495 complete. A rolling chassis less engine could be had for $2,250 and a bare body sold for only $500. The completed models came with ribbed elastic Naugahyde upholstery, a soft top, and removable side curtains like those used in period British sports cars. The cockpit was surrounded with a roll of crash padding providing debatable added safety. The interior featured two wide bench seats for jamming three close friends in front and two in back. A full set of Stewart Warner instruments (just coming on the scene as premium hot rod gauges) was included.
According to the company, a Ford-powered Yankee could sprint from 0-60 in 12 seconds (quick for the day). A dash plaque promised a top speed of over 100 mph! With a hotter engine the Yankee should have been slightly faster than a contemporary hot rod due to superior aerodynamics.
The Yankee was first shown in 1952 at a meeting of the Long Island Sports Car Association, and supposedly 30 orders were immediately placed. The Yankee was also featured in the June 1953 issues of Auto Age and Motorsport, where it received rave reviews. The Yankee was also displayed at the 1953 New York Auto Show in Madison Square Garden, where the show car sold on the spot.
Unfortunately, no records exist that show how many were built. Shiber's widow, Elaine, recalls the sports car days with great fondness. The best estimates from her and others associated with the project are that less than 10 Yankees were sold. The Yankee was a pioneering effort that was in production before the Corvette and led to its development through the Lunn connection. None are accounted for at this time, so if you find one, don't let it get away!
A special thanks to Rick D'Louhy and Geoff Hacker, who provided information and period photographs from the Elaine Shiber Collection. "Keep up with Forgotten Fiberglass," their work-in-progress on kit car history, at www.fiberglasssportscars.com (formerly www.ladawri.com). We would love to hear from any Yankee owners out there!