1955 Byrne Offy-Powered Spring Car

This 1955 Offenhauser-Powered 'Bob Byrne' Sprint Car was offered for sale at the 2007 Christie's Auction of 'Exceptional Motor Cars at the Monterey Jet Center.' Little is known about the vehicle's history. It is white with a dark red frame and wheels, with a red interior. It is constructed similarly to other period Midwest Sprint cars. Power is from an Offenhauser four-cylinder engine with dual overhead camshafts. There is a displacement size of over 220 cubic inches, and it has been fitted with a Hilborn mechanical fuel injection system. There is a two-speed manual gearbox and hydraulic rear-wheel drums.

The best engines of the time, for this type of racing, were the ones created by Miller, Offenhauser, and Meyer & Drake. The four-cylinder engine proved its worth over decades of racing in many types of racing. They were used by amateurs and professionals. The engine's development was taken another step when it was fitted with Stu Hilborn's mechanical fuel injection system. Horsepower increased by about 15 percent, and there was an improvement in throttle response.

Many components on this vehicle have been chromed. At the time of the auction, this car was not in running condition and needed some cosmetic work. The vehicle's history was lost with its past owner, who passed away before the sale. This car was offered without reserve and estimated to sell for $20,000 - $30,000. Despite its lack of history and mechanical shortcomings, it did find an interested buyer. The lot was sold for $31,900, including the buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Oct 2007