The Bolwell is perhaps the best of all the Australian sports cars, with a reputation for good looks and fantastic performance. Brothers Graeme, Campbell and Winston Bolwell began building specials in the 1960s then progressed to more serious production with the Mark IV, a kit-car with Ford Cortina running gear that sold 55 units. Moving through several incarnations, the Bolwell gradually matured into a serious sports car and the Mark VIII was the most resolved yet, retaining the stylish coupe bodywork of the Holden-powered Mark VII. Instead of the Holden six under the bonnet, the Nagari - as the Mark VIII was named - came with Ford 302-cid V8 power and Toploader gearbox and was produced at the Bolwell factory to turn-key condition. Although never officially sold as such, the Nagari was also available with Ford's more powerful 351-cid V8, making it a bone fide supercar. The bodywork was made from a single mould and other changes included bolt-on front and rear bumpers. In 1972 a convertible version was announced with a reinforced chassis to cope with any flexing. In total 127 coupes and 13 convertible Bolwells were made and few survive in original condition, those that have becoming increasingly sought after.
Shannons Sydney Summer Classic Auction
