http://s108.photobucket.com/albums/...=view¤t=ChemungLegendsFeature051207.flv They run 1200 cc Yamaha engines with a Toyota or similar rear axle. Wouldn't they be cool with 60 HP flathead V-8 power?
you'd be amazed at how small the legends cars are, hardly enough room now for a guy to sit in there... they are neat lookin though. Always thought they resembled a Morris Minor.
Other than the staggering cost of running a 70ish year old, no longer produced, rare, engine it would be pretty cool. Now if someone where to produce a small 180 inch V8 for this kind of competition I might actually watch or even get involved. 3" bore and a 3" stroke makes for 170 inches. Perfect.
A buddy of mine has one of these for sell I think he wants about $4000.00. It's cool but it's hard to get in and out of it, It looks like a 37 Ford coupe with tires hanging out eveywhere.
I wonder if it would be feasable to convert one for the street? Or at least use the body panels and build a streetable "old looking" chassis and drive train? Maybe a Crosley chassis or something similar.
I've thought about these as well for a high-mpg commuter (see numerous other threads) but couldn't imagine being out there in one amongst full sized traffic. You'd be crushed like a tin can! I prefer the Thunder Roadsters (sorry no link or photo, my lameness precedes me). More of a classic Indy vibe. I'd modify it into a two-seater.
I'd like to see them try some big cube aftermarket V-Twin motorcycle engines. A few "Harleys" might soften the swarm of bees sound.
I picked one of these up earlier this week No, I did not buy it but I did lift it up, surprisingly light. I also heard a projected price on a short block, big money
Shadow Rods in Saginaw Michigan is about to introduce an Aluminum Flathead block. Sure they're expensive, they cost a lot to make. I want one with Ardun heads, a 4-71 blower, and 4 Stromberg 97's. My birthday is Sept. 23rd. Hint.....Hint Frank
One of these ran in a "run what ya brung" challenge out here where you compete in a drag race, an oval track race and then a road course......the guy kicked everyones ass, including some high dollar sports cars and a flock of 'vettes and some other "G machines". Those Yamaha and Suzuki motors put out good horsepower and they don't have alot of weight to haul around.
my mini mod raceing brotherinlaw wants to make one street leagal and put a hopped up pinto banger out of his race car in it
Frank, Ya think maybe we could get a discount if we buy two? I'm liking the sound of your vision. Doc.
Why do you want to slow it down? The FJ1200 motor is a strong motor, way stronger than the flathead... And now you want to slow it down too... Hmmmm... a simple change of the exhaust will do wonders...
I've driven these on the oval track that's behind the back straightaway of the big track at the Charlotte (Lowes) Motor Speepway. I've also been through the manufacturing facility that's a couple of miles from the track. They are a blast to drive. Good power to weight ratio. Steering is pretty quick, almost go-kart like. I've seen a couple set up for street use. One problem is there is no reverse gear in the transmission because it's a motorcycle engine and gearbox. The idea of a V-8 60 in there is cool idea!! They've been making these cars since the mid '90's, so some used ones will probably eventually turn-up on the cheap to experiment with.
Doc, I'm not sure about the discount but if you'll forward me your credit card numbers I'll see whatI can do. I'm going down to hear the all aluminum test engine run sometime this next week if all goes well. Frank
The Jalopy Journal
