Factory Show Cars

Built in late 1967, the Dodge Daroo I was a radical factory show car created by Dodge design manager Bill Brownlie in collaboration with George Barris of Barris Kustoms. Based on a 1967 Dodge Dart GT convertible with the rare 383 CID engine, the body was shortened 10 inches at the rear and lengthened 17 inches up front, with a sharp V-nose and low wraparound windshield giving it a futuristic roadster profile. Finished in Pearl Honey Yellow, the Daroo debuted as part of Chrysler’s Scat Pack and Rapid Transit show-circuit displays. Retired after touring in lime-green candy for a second season, the Daroo I later resurfaced in the collection of Steve Juliano.

A Factory Show Car is a custom or concept vehicle built by an automaker to showcase design trends, new technology, or brand identity, often displayed at auto shows or promotional events. Unlike hand-built customs from private builders, factory show cars were professionally designed and crafted in-house or through collaborations with custom shops like Barris Kustoms or Winfield's Custom Shop. In the 1960s, these cars often featured wild styling, futuristic interiors, and one-off bodywork meant to grab attention and stir public imagination. Some were drivable; others were static mock-ups. Factory show cars played a key role in influencing both Detroit styling and grassroots customizing.