Before he designed the Tesla Model S, Cybertruck, Model X, and Model Y, Franz von Holzhausen penned the iconic shape of the Pontiac Solstice! But what happens when the factory 4-cylinder is swapped for a 400-horsepower Corvette V8?
In this week's episode, Jay Leno welcomes Tesla Chief Designer Franz von Holzhausen to show off his personal 2006 Pontiac Solstice Mallett V8. Originally built during a top-secret General Motors design contest pushed by legend Bob Lutz to reinvigorate the Pontiac brand, the Solstice was GM's answer to an affordable, pure American sports car.
After losing his original Solstice in a California wildfire, Franz replaced it with this ultra-clean Mallett V8 conversion. Featuring a 400HP LS2 engine out of a Corvette, upgraded suspension, heavy-duty brakes, and 19/20-inch staggered wheels, this 2,800-pound roadster is basically a Corvette in a lightweight Miata-sized package!
Watch Jay and Franz hit the road to talk about GM secret design rooms, parts-bin engineering, door handle struggles, and the raw roar of a V8-swapped roadster!
WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU!
What is your favorite design penned by Franz von Holzhausen—the Pontiac Solstice, Saturn Sky, or a Tesla?
Would you choose a 400HP V8 Solstice over a Corvette?
Drop your thoughts in the comments section below!
Love secret automotive history?
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