2019 JS Special (United States)

The JS Special was a Can-Am racer designed and built by Jerry Shuck over the course of more than three decades. Beginning in 1989, Shuck, hailing from Mendocino, California, embarked on a journey to create his dream sports roadster. Drawing from his background in sculpture and experience in automotive modeling, Shuck meticulously crafted the JS Special, a sub-2000-pound, 300-horsepower marvel of engineering.

Inspired by iconic racing cars such as the Maserati Type 61 "Birdcage" and Lamborghini's LP400 Countach, Shuck utilized modern computer-aided design (CAD) technology to develop a space frame constructed from chrome-moly steel tubing. The suspension system, steering gear, and other components were carefully selected and engineered to meet Shuck's exacting standards.

Powering the JS Special was a modified 1963 Oldsmobile 215-cubic-inch V-8 engine, boasting approximately 300 horsepower thanks to enhancements such as Buick 300 heads and Weber carburetors. The engine was mated to a Porsche 914 transaxle, adapted with the assistance of Kennedy Engineered Products and Transaxle Engineering.

Shuck's attention to detail extended to every aspect of the JS Special, from the handcrafted body panels made of carbon fiber and Nomex honeycomb to the custom-fabricated interior components, including bucket seats inspired by the Lotus Europa S2.

After years of meticulous craftsmanship and dedication, the JS Special was completed in 2019, achieving full running and driving status. However, challenges arose when attempting to register the vehicle in California, where the documentation from Michigan, where Shuck had previously resided, was not recognized. Despite these obstacles, Shuck remained determined to overcome the bureaucratic hurdles and share his creation with the world.

The JS Special stands as a testament to Shuck's passion, perseverance, and ingenuity, embodying the spirit of a true automotive enthusiast who turned his lifelong dream into reality through patience and craftsmanship.