A one-of-a-kind vintage racing car valued at around $320,000, has been stolen from a shed in Melbourne’s south-eastern suburbs.
Powered by an engine identical to that raced by Australian Formula One champion Jack Brabham, the Australian-made 1970 Rennmax racecar was stolen after thieves broke into the Rowville premises just days before Christmas.
The offenders stole both the car and the trailer it was hitched to, and while the trailer was later recovered on Phillip Island, the one-off racer is still missing.
Though 22 Repco Brabham engines exist, the stolen unit is the only example of one being paired with a Rennmax racing car.
The car’s owner, 53-year-old engineer and historic racer Jay Bondini, says it took him 12 months to restore the car, at a cost of around $200,000.
“The history of the car for me is substantial, with Sir Jack using the motor,” he said.
“It’s been a lifelong dream to own such a car…I restored it for the grand prix in Phillip Island last year.”
Police believe the theft was a targeted attack, with the vehicle likely to end up in a private collection, potentially overseas. The car cannot be road registered or legally driven on the road.
Anyone with any information on the theft is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
