A near-mint 1982 Guanci SJJ prototype, one of only three ever built, is up for sale, offering unmatched exclusivity.
For automotive enthusiasts seeking a truly unique piece of history, the rare 1982 Guanci SJJ prototype has surfaced for sale with just 209 miles on the odometer. This mid-engine sports car, the third and final example ever built by Guanci Automobiles, offers a fascinating glimpse into an ambitious but short-lived attempt to rival European exotics in the 1980s.
A Visionary’s Dream
The Guanci SJJ was the brainchild of John Guanci, a Chicago-based industrialist who sought to create a sports car to compete with icons like Lotus and Maserati. Founded in 1977, Guanci Automobiles collaborated with top talent, including Can-Am race car designer Bob McKee for the steel and aluminum monocoque chassis, and Chrysler designer Michael Williams for the fiberglass body. Legendary automotive figure Alejandro de Tomaso also lent his expertise, helping shape the car’s striking design.
Prototype #003
Unveiled at the 1979 Chicago Auto Show, the Guanci SJJ garnered significant attention but never entered mass production due to financial hurdles. Prototype #003, completed in 1982, was the final iteration of the project. Initially equipped with a turbocharged Buick V6, this car now features a transverse-mounted 4.0-liter Oldsmobile Aurora V8, delivering 250 horsepower through a three-speed automatic transmission.
Features and Highlights
This SJJ is finished in silver with a blue-and-white corduroy and leather interior. Unique design elements include a scalloped intake behind the driver’s door, flying buttresses with screened quarter window grilles, and retractable headlight covers. Inside, Scheel-Mann bucket seats and a Blaupunkt stereo system complement a dash featuring a 140-mph speedometer and 7,000-rpm tachometer.
Ownership and Condition
The Guanci family owned this prototype until it was donated to the Genius Garage Student Racing Team in Bowling Green, Ohio, in 2024. Despite its low mileage, the car has some imperfections, including scuffs on the rear bumper, a sagging headliner, and chipped windshield trim. It is being sold without a title on a bill of sale only, reflecting its prototype status.
Why It’s Special
As one of only three Guanci SJJs ever built, this car represents a rare opportunity to own a piece of American automotive history. With its unique design, engineering pedigree, and minimal mileage, the 1982 Guanci SJJ is a collector’s dream, offering a blend of exclusivity and historical significance.
For those who appreciate the innovation and ambition of boutique carmakers, the Guanci SJJ stands as a testament to what might have been, making it a compelling addition to any collection.
