1972 AAR Eagle 7200 Indycar

The 1972 AAR Eagle, designed by Roman Slobodynskyj, was built at the height of an era that had seen tremendous technological advancements in aerodynamics, turbocharging, and tire design. Beginning in 1963 and continuing for a decade, dramatic changes in technology and design led to the first car to break the magical 200 mph lap barrier. Lotus revolutionized the sport in 1963 with the mid-engine placement, which saw the track record at Indianapolis increase from 150 mph in 1962 to 165 mph in 1965. By 1971, the top speed had been raised to 179 mph.

Dan Gurney had hired engineer Slobodynskij away from Rockwell Aerospace in 1969. The design and development of a new car got underway with the aid of wind-tunnel testing. The new Eagle 7200 took full advantage of the new USAC rules, including the addition of a wider wing to increase downforce, and the wheels were moved out to the full 80-inch width possible. The Drake-Offenhauser engine with turbocharger offered over 750 horsepower and was a stressed member from the firewall back. Phil Remington built the slab-sided aluminum body. The suspension was designed to be adjustable by the driver on the track.

At the 1972 Indianapolis 500, Bobby Unser set the fastest lap of 196.678 mph which was 17 mph faster than the previous year. During that year, Unser would win six pole positions in nine races. Al Unser Sr., who won the race in 1970 and 1971, was hoping to become the first driver in history to 'three-peat' at the Indianapolis 500. He came close, finishing in the runner-up position. Mark Donohue won the race and scored his first Indy 500 victory and the first victory for car owner Roger Penske.

By the start of the 1972 Indy 500, six examples of the AAR 7200 Eagle had been built. After it showcased its tremendous speed, privateers quickly placed orders, and by the end of the year, 29 examples had been sold.

The Eagle chassis dominated in the 1973 Indy 500, with the first six starting rows occupied by Eagles.

by Daniel Vaughan | Apr 2020