Crosby Metal Products was an automotive manufacturer based in Ontario, California, that operated from approximately 1982 to 1990. The company specialized in assembling and modifying kit cars, particularly the Manta series, which were popular among automotive enthusiasts.
One of Crosby's notable contributions to the kit car market was the design and production of the Crosby Fun I +1. This unique vehicle was a narrow car that utilized a Volkswagen Beetle chassis, allowing for a tandem seating arrangement where the driver and passenger sat one behind the other. The design featured cycle-type mudguards over the wheels, a sports car nose, and a high tail wing, which contributed to its racing aesthetic.
In addition to the Fun I +1, Crosby was known for its Manta conversions, which included the installation of V8 engines into the Manta Montage. The company also offered a more advanced turn-key Manta conversion known as the Can Am, which featured a racing-type chassis, fabricated suspension, a ZF transaxle, and a modified Chevrolet V8 engine. These modifications aimed to enhance the performance and driving experience of the Manta vehicles, catering to a niche market of performance-oriented car enthusiasts.
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