Fireball Tim's Blog, page 39

Badass BEATNIK BANDIT, Hells Dept and Ponch enter the Garage

As you know, I’m a BIG DIECAST GUY and my Collection in the 805 is epic. My goal has always been to SKETCH the entire line of Sweet Sixteens and I’m still workin’ on it. But today, it’s all about the BEATNIK BANDIT.

The original Beatnik Bandit was a custom car created in 1961 by Ed “Big Daddy” Roth. The car features a clear bubble canopy, speed and directionally controlled by a central joystick that ended up in multiple SPECTRAFLAME Colors by Hot Wheels in ’69! Which one do YOU have? Check out all the BB SketchSwag in the Garage as well as ALL THE HOT WHEELS here so far!

Today’s B&W SKETCH is HELLS DEPT which was an original for the DIECAST DEMONS Coloring Book with Diecast Heroes!

And finally, I’ve hung out with PONCH (Erik Estrada) many times and something CHIPS is brewin…’ Stay tooned here to the Fireball Tim Garage.

Today’s BEST OF SHOW is a 500hp Corvette-Powered NASH METROPOLITAN! As CRAZY as they come!! WATCH and SUBSCRIBE to Fireball’s Youtube Channel for 2 New Episodes DAILY!

*THANK YOU for LEAVING A REVIEW if you’ve snagged something from the Garage! It really helps!

*UNSUBSCRIBE by sending an email to askfireball@fireballtim.com with
UNSUBSCRIBE in the Subject Line. Done.



The post Badass BEATNIK BANDIT, Hells Dept and Ponch enter the Garage first appeared on FIREBALL TIM GARAGE.

JETSONS, UFOs, LENO & PIZZA slip into the Fireball Garage…

Some people have a hard time letting go and just having a good time, but Fireball’s committed to bringing the ABSOLUTE BEST of CAR CULTURE, UFOs and Concept Art to your doorstep through amazing and fun AUTOMOTIVE POP CULTURE. And today… it gets a bit Spacey.

First up is an ALL NEW CANVAS PRINT of THE JETSONS! America’s favorite Cartoon Family (Maybe the Flintstones, too?) and their cool ride, the FAMILY SHIP! Check out the new stuff in the Garage! PLUS, Fireball busts out an oddball HEINKEL KABINE that ended up on the cover of his Official Dennis Gage ORPHANS AND ODDBALLS Coloring Book.

Today’s B&W SKETCH is “IMPALA ABDUCTION!” Yes, Aliens love Wagons and Lowriders. Should Fireball do a COLOR VERSION?? And finally, BIG DOG JAY loves to color too! Although the SPIKE BOOK is now out of print, check out what’s new at Barnes & Noble!

LASTLY, watch today’s BEST OF SHOW! It’s PIZZA MAN DAN!!!

ART TALK LIVE is this morning at 8am on FacebookLIVE. Join us as Fireball enters the 805… SEMA, SOLDIER CON & RECON all confirmed LIVE!!

*THANK YOU for LEAVING A REVIEW if you’ve snagged something from the Garage! It really helps!

*UNSUBSCRIBE by sending an email to askfireball@fireballtim.com with
UNSUBSCRIBE in the Subject Line. Done.

The post JETSONS, UFOs, LENO & PIZZA slip into the Fireball Garage… first appeared on FIREBALL TIM GARAGE.

Fireball launches more JURASSIC Ford Explorer Concept Art

In the summer of 1992, the world was captivated by the groundbreaking film JURASSIC PARK, where prehistoric creatures roamed a high-tech island sanctuary. A notable feature of the movie was the iconic Ford Explorer vehicles, specially modified for the film to navigate the perilous terrain of Isla Nublar. And today, Fireball’s got MUGS, TEES and NEW CANVAS VARIATIONS in the Garage!

The journey of these vehicles began at the Ford Assembly Plant in Wayne, Michigan. Here, skilled engineers and technicians undertook the task of transforming ordinary Ford Explorers into the rugged tour vehicles that would ferry visitors through the fictional Jurassic Park. The modifications were extensive, incorporating a distinctive green and yellow paint scheme, custom roof racks, and specially designed tail lights. Inside, the Explorers were outfitted with bespoke interiors, including state-of-the-art dashboard displays that simulated the tour experience for the film’s characters.

The cost of creating these modified vehicles was significant, reflecting the meticulous detail required to bring Michael Crichton’s vision to life on screen. Each Explorer underwent meticulous craftsmanship and testing to ensure they not only looked the part but could withstand the demands of filming in a tropical environment.

Speaking of filming, the lush landscapes of “Jurassic Park” were not confined to a single location. While the fictional Isla Nublar was brought to life primarily through extensive sets and groundbreaking CGI, key scenes involving the Ford Explorers were filmed on the breathtaking island of Kauai, Hawaii. The rugged terrain and verdant jungles provided the perfect backdrop, enhancing the sense of adventure and danger as the vehicles navigated the island’s treacherous paths.

From assembly line to silver screen, the journey of the Jurassic Park Ford Explorers exemplifies the fusion of automotive engineering and cinematic magic. These vehicles not only became an integral part of the film’s visual identity but also left an indelible mark on popular culture. Decades later, they continue to evoke nostalgia and wonder, reminding us of the enduring allure of Jurassic Park and the craftsmanship that brought its world to life. And the Saga continues…



The post Fireball launches more JURASSIC Ford Explorer Concept Art first appeared on FIREBALL TIM GARAGE.

BONUS SKETCH!! Gasser, New Car Show & Comicon Interview!

If you didn’t watch this morning’s ART TALK LIVE with Fireball, he announced his NEW CAR SHOW which starts September 1st at the Channel Islands Maritime Museum! WHEELS AND WAVES IS BACK, BABY!! And to celebrate… how about a PLYMOUTH GASSER SKETCH!! Plus, Fireball meets up with Actor JOE MANTENGA to talk cars in secret… so, shhhh…

Also, “Fireball joins BRENDAN ALLEN of COMICON in the virtual panel room for a wide-ranging chat about his life and career. He also discusses training with Chuck Norris, designing the Batman ’89 Batmobile, and more. Fireball explains the importance of consistent design language in film, comics, and brand identity. (Need help with that? Reach out to him…) They also discuss SoldierCon, SEMA, and an upcoming collaboration with Projekt Cars’ Carlos Molina, the Dark Dragon.”



The post BONUS SKETCH!! Gasser, New Car Show & Comicon Interview! first appeared on FIREBALL TIM GARAGE.

The History of George Barris’ BLOODY MUNSTERS DRAGULA…

In the pantheon of iconic TV vehicles, few are as instantly recognizable and beloved as the Munster Koach and its sinister sibling, the DRAGULA. Designed for the classic 1960s television show “The Munsters,” Dragula was a ghoulishly inspired creation that perfectly complemented the eerie yet endearing family of monsters. And we’ve got all new stuff IN THE GARAGE!

Designed by legendary builder and friend George Barris, Dragula was envisioned as a hot rod for the afterlife. Its design drew heavily from the coffin shape, featuring a fiberglass body molded to resemble a classic coffin, complete with ornate trimmings and a gothic aesthetic that oozed macabre charm. The car’s front end was adorned with a striking spider-web grille, while the rear featured a decorative lantern and a pair of menacing zoomie pipes that jutted out like demonic horns.

Constructed in a remarkably short span of only three weeks, Dragula was completed just in time for its debut in “The Munsters” episode titled “Hot Rod Herman,” which aired in 1965. The year I was BORN. The rapid build was matched by a modest budget, reportedly costing around $18,000 at the time—a testament to Uncle George’s ingenuity and craftsmanship.

Despite its brief build time and relatively low cost, Dragula became an instant hit with audiences. Its appearances on “The Munsters” were limited but memorable, making a lasting impression with fans who appreciated its quirky yet sinister design. Dragula’s unique blend of horror and hot rod culture encapsulated the show’s playful approach to parodying classic horror tropes while adding a touch of humor and style.

Throughout its on-screen career, Dragula made occasional appearances in subsequent episodes and later adaptations of “The Munsters,” solidifying its status as an enduring symbol of the show’s legacy. Its influence extended beyond television, inspiring countless replicas and tributes in the car customizing community and becoming a sought-after collectible for enthusiasts of both classic cars and pop culture.

Today, Dragula remains a cherished artifact of television history—a testament to the creativity and imagination that brought “The Munsters” and its quirky cast of characters to life. Its legacy continues to thrill and delight fans, ensuring that its place in the annals of iconic TV vehicles remains secure for generations to come.

**WATCH Fireball’s episode of the “George Barris Memorial RALLY” below!

*THANK YOU for LEAVING A REVIEW if you’ve snagged something from the Garage! It really helps!

*UNSUBSCRIBE by sending an email to askfireball@fireballtim.com with
UNSUBSCRIBE in the Subject Line. Done.



The post The History of George Barris’ BLOODY MUNSTERS DRAGULA… first appeared on FIREBALL TIM GARAGE.

Fireball SKETCHES FLINTSTONES awesome Bedrock Roadster…

THE FLINTSTONES, a beloved animated series that aired from 1960 to 1966, marked a significant milestone in television history. Set in the fictional town of Bedrock during the prehistoric era, the show cleverly blended Stone Age themes with modern-day issues, resonating with audiences of all ages and becoming an instant hit. And today, it’s a FIREBALL SKETCH!! (Check out all the cars built for the film at Cinema Vehicles!)

Central to The Flintstones’ appeal were its distinctive elements like the iconic CARS that mirrored contemporary automobiles but were powered by foot pedals. The Flintmobile, Fred Flintstone’s stone-age vehicle, became a cultural icon, symbolizing the show’s unique blend of primitive and modern sensibilities. This whimsical approach extended beyond transportation, influencing a wave of cartoons that dared to explore diverse and unconventional settings.

What set The Flintstones apart was its humor, which was often gentle yet sophisticated. The show’s creators, William Hanna and Joseph Barbera, infused the series with satire and wit, cleverly parodying everyday modern life through a prehistoric lens. This approach not only entertained but also challenged the norms of animated storytelling at the time.

At the heart of the show was the dynamic between Fred Flintstone and his pet dinosaur, Dino. Their playful interactions highlighted the show’s emphasis on family and friendship, often showcasing a humorous yet tender side to Fred’s larger-than-life persona. This innocent playfulness resonated deeply with viewers, making the characters endearing and relatable.

The Flintstones also paved the way for a wave of cartoons that explored unconventional settings. Shows like The Jetsons (set in a futuristic world), Scooby-Doo, Where Are You! (a mystery-solving gang), and The Smurfs (a community of tiny blue creatures) followed suit, each introducing viewers to new and imaginative realms.

The enduring legacy of The Flintstones lies not only in its pioneering animation techniques and memorable characters but also in its ability to transcend its prehistoric setting to deliver timeless humor and heartfelt moments. It demonstrated that animated series could tackle diverse themes and settings, paving the way for the rich variety of cartoons that followed.

The Flintstones’ success can be attributed to its blend of Stone Age charm, modern satire, and heartwarming relationships. Its influence on subsequent cartoons is undeniable, inspiring creators to explore imaginative worlds and unconventional settings, all while entertaining generations with its humor and endearing characters.

*THANK YOU for LEAVING A REVIEW if you’ve snagged something from the Garage! It really helps!

*UNSUBSCRIBE by sending an email to askfireball@fireballtim.com with
UNSUBSCRIBE in the Subject Line. Done.

The post Fireball SKETCHES FLINTSTONES awesome Bedrock Roadster… first appeared on FIREBALL TIM GARAGE.

BONUS SKETCH is YO MAMA’s VW Bus, Murphy CLOSING and SUDS!

Today’s BONUS SKETCH is a hot Custom VDub Bus built by YO MAMA and snapped into my VDUB BUSES Coloring Book!

PLUS, parting shot from THE MURPHY as the doors begin to close officially Sunday. But rest assured… as plans are already set for a NEW SHOW starting September 1st! I will announce THIS WEEK on ART TALK LIVE via Facebook at 8am Monday morning!!

Spent last night (FRIDAY) at the Santa Paula Friday Night Cruise, (Check out today’s BEST OF SHOW!) then RODS AND ROSES in Carpinteria today. Some amazing cars and EPISODES coming this week!

Finally, “SUDS” IS HERE for Soldier Con!! Check out his super cool CAR SHOW ADDICT Bandana! (It’s Ruff being so cool…)

Have a great Sunday, folks!

 

The post BONUS SKETCH is YO MAMA’s VW Bus, Murphy CLOSING and SUDS! first appeared on FIREBALL TIM GARAGE.

The TV Show History of FORD and CHARLIES ANGELS…

In the glamorous world of 1970s television, product placement was becoming increasingly prevalent as advertisers sought innovative ways to capture consumer attention. One notable example of this strategy was Ford Motor Company’s sponsorship of the hit TV show CHARLIES ANGELS, which aired from 1976 to 1981. The show, with its blend of action, intrigue, and three iconic female leads, became a cultural phenomenon and a significant platform for Ford to showcase its automobiles.

Ford’s decision to feature prominently in “Charlies Angels” was strategic. The company aimed to leverage the show’s popularity to enhance brand visibility and appeal to a wide audience. Among the Ford vehicles prominently featured were the 1977 Ford Mustang Cobra II and the Ford Pinto, both of which became synonymous with the show’s stylish and adventurous spirit.

The 1977 Ford Mustang Cobra II, with its sporty design and distinct Cobra branding, perfectly aligned with the show’s dynamic and fashionable image. Which has an all-new FIREBALL SKETCH in the Garage with Farrah! The car was showcased in various episodes, often driven by the Angels themselves during high-speed chases and thrilling escapades. This exposure not only bolstered the Mustang’s reputation as a performance vehicle but also solidified its status as a symbol of 1970s cool.

Similarly, the Ford Pinto, known for its compact size and economical pricing, also benefited from its appearances on “Charlies Angels.” While less glamorous than the Mustang, the Pinto’s presence on the show highlighted its practicality and reliability, appealing to a broader demographic of potential buyers.

The impact of the sponsorship on Ford’s sales was significant. The exposure on a popular prime-time television show helped elevate the Mustang Cobra II and the Ford Pinto into cultural icons of their time. Viewers were drawn to the cars featured on the show, inspired by the excitement and allure associated with the Angels’ adventures.

Sales data from the late 1970s reflect a noticeable uptick in interest and purchases of both the Mustang Cobra II and the Ford Pinto, attributed in part to their visibility on “Charlie’s Angels.” Ford’s savvy marketing strategy paid off handsomely, as the company successfully capitalized on the show’s massive viewership to drive showroom traffic and boost overall sales figures.

Beyond immediate financial gains, Ford’s association with “Charlies Angels” contributed to enhancing the brand’s image as innovative and forward-thinking. By aligning with a pop culture phenomenon, Ford demonstrated its ability to connect with consumers on a deeper level, associating its vehicles with the excitement and glamour of television’s golden age.

This was a masterstroke of advertising ingenuity. By showcasing the 1977 Ford Mustang Cobra II and Ford Pinto on one of the decade’s most-watched television shows, Ford not only increased sales but also cemented its place in pop culture history. The enduring legacy of this partnership highlights the enduring power of strategic product placement and its ability to shape consumer perceptions and preferences.



The post The TV Show History of FORD and CHARLIES ANGELS… first appeared on FIREBALL TIM GARAGE.

BATMAN and ROBIN target EVIL VILLAIN TEAM UP for Purple Haze

To celebrate TONS of NEW 1966 BATMOBILE ART… Batman and Robin take on THE PURPLE HAZE…

The year was 1966 and Gotham’s famed crime-fighting duo, BATMAN AND ROBIN found themselves on a special mission in the sprawling city of Los Angeles. The Caped Crusader and Boy Wonder had received intel from Commissioner Gordon about a diabolical plot concocted by none other than Gotham’s notorious quartet of villains: The Penguin, The Joker, Catwoman, and The Riddler. And they called it THE PURPLE HAZE…

The dastardly plan involved a secret atomic dye agent that, once introduced into LA’s water supply, would turn every citizen purple. The villains intended this not only as a bizarre spectacle but also as a means to destabilize the city, knowing chaos would follow such an unusual and alarming event.

Batman and Robin, armed with their wits and an array of Bat-gadgets, quickly mobilized. Racing through the night streets of LA in the iconic BATMOBILE, they formulated a counter-plan: an antidote spray capable of neutralizing the atomic dye agent before it could spread beyond control. But it had to be done quick as it was UNSTABLE.

Meanwhile, high above the city, the villains cackled in their hidden lair, confident in their impending victory. The Penguin oversaw the deployment of the atomic dye agent, while The Joker and Catwoman reveled in the chaos unfolding below. The Riddler, true to his nature, delighted in leaving clues that only the keen mind of Batman could decipher.

As the tainted water began to flow through the city’s pipes and faces became purplized, turning faucets and fountains purple also, panic spread among the populace. But just as the villains gloated over their imminent triumph, the Bat-signal pierced the night sky. Batman and Robin swooped in, spraying their antidote from the Batmobile with precision and speed, but not without accidentally starting to turn purple THEMSELVES!

The dynamic duo faced off against their foes in a spectacular rooftop showdown, where punches were thrown, gadgets deployed, and riddles unraveled. KAPOW!! With the villains distracted, Batman managed to disable the device that controlled the atomic dye agent, while Robin apprehended The Riddler with a cleverly timed Batarang launch.

In the end, the citizens of Los Angeles were saved from a colorful fate thanks to Batman and Robin’s quick thinking and heroic efforts. The villains, defeated and deflated, were carted off to the awaiting police, as the Batmobile sped off into the night, leaving behind a city grateful for their masked protectors. That is… until they realize that the PURPLE DYE was only the beginning…

The post BATMAN and ROBIN target EVIL VILLAIN TEAM UP for Purple Haze first appeared on FIREBALL TIM GARAGE.

Vintage GET SMART was and STILL IS funny Cold War Coolness

In the swinging sixties, amidst the tense backdrop of the Cold War, one hysterical television show emerged as a beacon of satire and espionage intrigue: “GET SMART.” Premiering in 1965, this Mel Brooks comedic gem not only captured the imaginations of viewers but also cleverly parodied the spy genre that was sweeping popular culture at the time.

At the heart of “Get Smart” was its protagonist, Maxwell Smart, portrayed by the charismatic Don Adams. Smart, an agent for CONTROL, a secret U.S. government counterintelligence agency, navigated through absurdly dangerous missions with humor and wit. His catchphrase “Sorry about that, Chief,” became iconic, reflecting both his bumbling nature and endearing charm.

Central to Smart’s escapades was his trusty spy steed, the 1965 SUNBEAM TIGER. And that’s today’ FIREBALL SKETCH!

This sleek British sports car, modified with various gadgets, epitomized the show’s blend of espionage and comedy. It was a vehicle as much a character as Smart himself, embodying the stylish yet quirky nature of the series.

“Get Smart” resonated deeply with audiences during the Cold War era. As tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union escalated, the show provided a welcome comedic relief while subtly addressing serious themes of espionage and national security. Smart’s missions often poked fun at the stereotypical spy dramas of the time, portraying both the spies and the villains in a lighthearted manner.

The success of “Get Smart” marked a cultural shift in television. It demonstrated that audiences were hungry for entertainment that not only entertained but also engaged with contemporary issues in a satirical way. The show’s blend of slapstick comedy and clever Mel Brooks writing garnered critical acclaim and a loyal fan base, ensuring its lasting impact on television history.

It now stands as more than just a vintage sitcom, but was a cultural touchstone that reflected the anxieties and absurdities of its time. Maxwell Smart and his Sunbeam Tiger became symbols of a bygone era, reminding us that even in the midst of global tension, humor can be a powerful tool for both entertainment and social commentary.

As we look back on the legacy of “Get Smart,” we celebrate its ability to entertain, provoke thought, and leave us with memorable catchphrases like “Sorry about that, Chief,” echoing through the annals of television history.

*THANK YOU for LEAVING A REVIEW if you’ve snagged something from the Garage! It really helps!

*UNSUBSCRIBE by sending an email to askfireball@fireballtim.com with
UNSUBSCRIBE in the Subject Line. Done.

The post Vintage GET SMART was and STILL IS funny Cold War Coolness first appeared on FIREBALL TIM GARAGE.