OLDS BANSHEE
Photos by Dan Sanchez and Larry Saavedra
Of the many classic vintage Baja race cars, the 1972 Olds Banshee was one that didn’t win a lot of races but was made famous due to its appearance, its design, its famous drivers, and its legendary builder. Created by Vic Hickey after the Baja Boot, it was his next generation of a mid-engine vehicle using GM parts to create a purpose-built race vehicle for Baja. With collaboration from famous car designer George Barris, and racers such as actor James Garner, the car came into the hands of former Rough Rider racer John Swift. The feature of the Olds Banshee appeared in the August issue:
TOP: The short wheelbase car has a George Barris built fiberglass body that is 14-inches shorter than a standard 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass.
RIGHT: Vic Hickey placed the engine back into the cab, making the car a mid-engine design that gave it improved balance on the racecourse.
