1983 AAR Eagle Indy Car

In 1982, sponsor Bob Soltow of Jet Engineering Inc supplied Max Dowker with a second AAA Eagle chassis. It had many similarities to chassis number 8102 including the use of titanium throughout its structure. Driving duties were entrusted to two-time World of Outlaws Sprint Car Champion Sammy Swindell. The Chevrolet-equipped Jet Engineering car was an oddity at the race, as the other 32 competitors were powered by Cosworth-powered engines with either superchargers or turbochargers. Swindell failed to qualify the car.

It is believed that this car was later used in four CART races in 1982 driven by Gregg Leffler, the 1979 USAC sprint car champion. Its best finish was sixth at Riverside, California as most of its other efforts were plagued by engine troubles.

In 1983 it was brought back to Indianapolis with Billy Vukovich behind the wheel. Again, it failed to qualify against the Cosworth-engined competition.

Its CART racing career continued; Leffler used it on three road courses and Tom Bigelow drove it at a fourth event. Its best finish was 11th at Mid-Ohio by Leffler.

In 2007 this Gurney AAR Eagle Indy Car was brought to the Quail Lodge Resort & Golf Club in Carmel, California where it was auctioned at the Bonhams auction, An Important Sale of Collectors' Motorcars and Automobilia. The car was estimated to sell for $60,000 - $80,000. Bidding reached a high of $50,000 (plus premium and taxes) which was enough to satisfy the reserve and the lot was sold.

By Daniel Vaughan | Apr 2008