This was one of the first Corvette racers, one of the first to compete in an International event, for sure - The 1954 Mexican Road Race.
Story goes that the story ends on the first leg of the race with a rod through the block.
But, she looked very sharp with her red wires [as per the diecast replica].
In 1954, when Ford debuted the 2-seat Thunderbird, GM decided to promote Corvette with an international racing appearance [Bean-counters of today, we can hear your panic]. Bill von Esser - Chicago Speed Shop owner and co-driver Ernest Pultz were picked to enter the La Carrera Panamericana in what was called the 'Large Sports' class. The red Dayton wire wheels were spun by a higher-compression, 3 carb, 'Blue Flame' six putting out 155hp.
Then, the 'Blue Flame' put out the rod somewhere between Tuxtla and Oaxaca. |
And, we get to go! Hope to see you at Sebring. I can't wait!
--- cor123 from Florida on 03.18.2009 at 10:38AM