Mystery Car 60 is a Jowett Jupiter. But it’s not just any old Jupiter. This is one of the infamous R4 models first exhibited in 1953. According to one source, only three R4 models were ever produced — the first made of steel and the others of plastic laminate. The outcome was an interesting car that would have caught my attention if I had been looking for a sporty car back then.
When I first saw the R4’s 1.5 liter horizontally opposed engine, I was reminded of the VW and Corvair engines that have intrigued me for the last twenty years. At only 64 hp, you might not expect much, but the R4 actually achieved 100 mph at one point … with the hood removed. Even still, it was an accomplishment for a car at the time.
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1 Jowett Jupiter Specifications, Performance and Statistics
2 Jowett Jupiter Production History
I can confirm that your comment:- “an interesting car that would have caught my attention if I had been looking for a sporty car back then.” would most probably have been correct, as I am lucky enough to own the actual example pictured, although now with a genuine registration rather than the 1953 Motor Show cobbled up one shown, however that number plate is still with the car. Despite only having 64 BHP, it is a lively feeling and nippy car, and a pleasure to drive, and creates a lot of attention. It is the second of the three made, the third has been lost, but the steel prototype still exists, awaiting a rebuild.