1961 Dreossi Special

In the early 1960s, this small, torpedo-shaped racing car was built by Ray Dreossi and Cece Simmons in Canada. Its configuration makes it a candidate for the Formula Junior racing class as its engine is smaller than 1100cc, there is a production gear case, and there are drum brakes. The front brakes are from an Austin Mini 850.

The design is rather unique with the vehicle sitting extremely low along with all of the mechanical components, while the driver sits in an upright position. The driver is inches from the ground with the legs in a nearly straight position, just as though sitting on the ground. The car has a monocoque structure with no tube framing and was built from a drop tank from an F86 Sabre Jet. Steering is by a modified NSU Prinz rack setup.

The transmission is from a Fiat 600 and has been mounted upside down. A Fiat 850 radiator is used for cooling. The engine is from an Austin-Healey Sprite that originally displaced 948cc but has been bored to 1001cc. The result is a powerplant that offers an impressive 75 horsepower and can carry this small, lightweight, and nimble vehicle to speeds of over 100 mph.

By Daniel Vaughan | Jul 2009