USA 2024 - Bubble Car Collection: Classic Restos - Series 56

Fletch continues his journey in Detroit, Michigan, visiting the remarkable Bubble Car Collection at Fort Wayne. His long-time associate, David Marchioni, grants him exclusive access to some truly unique vehicles within the collection.

The Bubble Car Collection is home to rare and one-of-a-kind cars, all preserved in a climate-controlled bubble environment. The first car, David, showcases a spectacular Ford Mustang II concept car, the predecessor to the iconic 1964 Mustang. 

Typically, manufacturers destroy concept and prototype cars after testing and displaying them at car shows or in magazines to gauge consumer reaction. These cars are not intended for resale and are not usually road-compliant. However, three prototypes from the Bubble Car Collection somehow escaped the crusher, providing a rare glimpse into the Mustang's development. The final 1964 Mustang underwent several changes from this early prototype, making it a unique opportunity to witness the Mustang’s evolution.

The second vehicle brought out of the climate-controlled environment is a 1952 Packard Pan American, another spectacular prototype. It’s one of six built and the sole survivor.

David then introduces Fletch to Mel, an avid collector of movie cars. Mel proudly reveals his 23-car collection, consisting almost entirely of replicas with one notable exception. Each vehicle is in pristine condition. 

Among the replicas are a 1978 Trans Am from Smokey & the Bandit, the Munster Koach from The Munsters movie, and a 1974 Dodge Monaco decked out in full Blues Brothers kit. Other highlights include the van from Dumb & Dumber and the green Wagoneer from Chevy Chase's National Lampoon’s Vacation The only original car is the Monkeemobile, a modified Pontiac GT featured in The Monkees TV series, which is also Mel's personal favourite.