The original Stutz Motor Car Company ceased automobile production in 1935. In 1968, James O’Donnell purchased the name “Stutz” and commissioned former Chrysler stylist, Virgil Exner to design an elegant personal luxury car that would appeal to the wealthy. Built on a Pontiac Grand Prix chassis, the prototype Blackhawk appeared in 1969. The new Stutz was immediately popular with celebrity owners such as Mohammed Ali and Sammy Davis, Jr. When the $100,000 d’Italia convertible debuted in 1976, it was hailed as the most expensive convertible in the world. Although this car was ordered by Elvis, it was delivered new to motorcycle dare-devil Evel Knievel before being acquired by Wayne Newton.