Original movie Batmobile to feature to Speedshow 09

Adding a touch of fantasy to this year’s Speedshow, the Batmobile used in the 1989 Batman movie, starring Michael Keaton, will be flown in especially for the event.

“This original movie Batmobile is sure to attract some serious attention and we’re delighted to have it at Speedshow over 19 and 20 September this year to add an element of fantasy to the show,” says Speedshow organiser Keith Sharp.

“Jet-powered and filled with electronic gadgets, this Batmobile featured in both Batman and Batman Returns in 1992 from Warner Bros. Pictures and has literally legions of fans the world-over. It’s amazing to think that it’s twenty years since that Batman movie!”

The Batmobile is being loaned to Speedshow by Warner Bros. Movie World theme park on Australia’s Gold Coast. The logistics of getting the 6.1-metre long, 2.1-metre wide vehicle to Speedshow has required detailed planning by Sharp and freight partner Jenners Worldwide Freight.

“We have shipped hundreds of vehicle around the world, but the Batmobile would certainly be one of the largest and most intriguing,” comments Jeff Crawley of Jenners.

Combined with the amazing workmanship and design of the Battle Chopper motorcycles, the Batmobile adds a fun, fantasy element to Speedshow ’09 which also features the world’s fastest NASCAR, Roary the Racing Car in the new Speedshow 4 Kids area, and fantastic new cars and motorcycles from some of the world’s leading manufacturers. This year’s show also has an extensive line-up of racing, performance and classic cars and motorbikes, and a wide array of motoring and motorsport-related exhibitors. Speedshow ’09 takes place at the ASB Showgrounds in Auckland’s Greenlane over the weekend of 19 and 20 September. Tickets are available via Ticketek and more information about the event can be found on www.speedshow.co.nz.

ENDS/

Details of the 1989 Batmobile

§ The gadgets and gizmos include: Browning machine guns, grenades, grappling hooks, Batdisc thrower and a hydraulic lift.

§ When activated through voice command, the entire car is protected by bullet-proof shield plating.

§ To squeeze through narrow space, the Batmobile can jettison its side and tail section and contract the wheels into roller-bade configuration to transform into super-streamlined Batmissile.

§ A jet turbine engine delivers 1,500lbs of thrust which powers this sensational creation from 0 to 60mph in less than 3.7 seconds.

§ Everything on this supercar was handcrafted with all the latest in space-age materials, alloys and parts.

§ It is covered with 70 coats of black pearl acrylic lacquers.

1989 Batmobile specifications according to www.chickslovethecar.com

Thrust: 1500 lbs. at 103% ROS

Torque: 1750 lbs./ft. at 98.7% ROS

0 to 60mph: 3.7 sec

Top speed: Unknown

Brake rating: Excellent

Wheelbase: 141.0 in.

Length: 260.7 in.

Width: 94.4 in.

Height: 51.2 in.

Wheels: Cast alloy, 15 x 6.5

Tires: High aspect L60-15

Fuel requirement: High octane 97% special