For more than 25 years, Michael Dunlap has crafted uniquely original automobile models. Typically they are built to 1:12 scale, hand engraved and finished in 24 Karat gold. They are purchased for different reasons -- their beauty as artwork, display in museums and trophies to commemorate special automotive racing events.

Dale Earnhardt and Richard Childress accepting the 1986 Goodyear Gold Car Award from Chairman Bob Mercer (center).

Every year since 1985*, The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company has commissioned Mike Dunlap to build a one-of-a-kind gold model to be presented to the Winston/Nextel Cup Champion. Each is an exact 1:12 scale replica of the actual car driven that year by the champion.

(*with the exception of 1989)

Roger Penske has been a client for the past 22 consecutive years. He uses gold models of his Indy cars to document his success in both the CART(Championship Auto Racing Teams) and IRL (Indy Racing League) Series.

Some of these models have been presented as awards to his drivers and gifts to his sponsors. Others are currently on display in his museums and corporate headquarters.

Models of the cars driven by Helio Castroneves and Gil DeFerran crossing the brick finish line in 1st and 2nd places respectively at the 2001 Indianapolis 500 race

Rarely do model builders produce one-off originals for sale. The high cost in terms of time and money is prohibitive for most people. A select few however, recognize the value of owning an original, one-of-a-kind work of art and are willing to make the investment. The list of those who possess these beautiful sculptures is relatively short and prestigious -- a veritable who’s who in racing.

Copyright © Michael Dunlap 2005 All rights reserved. Any use or copying of the materials on this web site without written permission is a violation of the Copyright Act of 1976. mike@michaeldunlapstudio.com 540-454-2154