6 Museum Sign Stationed at the Orlando Air Force Base, enlisted men Nik Gudmunds and Jerry Ball took advantage of a fellow airman’s misfortune. A buddy totaled his VW, so the pair designed and built a fiberglass body on the wrecked chassis. In the late 50s, fiberglass car body kits became popular, and the duo saw a potential business when their tour of duty ended. That future endeavor never materialized, however, two coupes and a roadster body did. Gudmunds and Ball’s “Thor” was completed in 1958. Named for Nik Gudmund’s father Thor, the pair, like other enthusiasts found the air-cooled VW drivetrain perfect for creating custom fiberglass vehicles. Among the car’s special features is the Targa-style removable roof (not present), referred to as a “Surrey Top” by Nik. The Thor has custom dual exhaust, and enough room under the hood for a spare tire. Fifteen separate molds were required to create the body. Specifications • Engine: 73 cubic inches (1.2L) • Output: 38 horsepower • Transmission: 4-Speed Manual Volkswagen • Wheelbase: 95 inches • Overall Length: 163 Inches • Weight: 1,386 lbs • Top Speed: 86 mph • Production: 3—two coupes and a roadster body • Manufacturer: Nik Gudmunds and Jerry Ball
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