1949 Go-On II Special

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The Go-On II is one of two racing specials built by Scandinavia's Gunnar Olsson, an individual who made significant contributions to the region's post-war racing niche. He was the principal force behind the creation of the Gellerasen, Sweden's first purpose-built racetrack for automobile competition, and home of the Kanonloppet races. Additionally, he was part of a group that founded the FIA-affiliated Nordic Special racing series in 1950.

The Go-On racecars were home-built specials built by Olsson for use in Scandinavian events. The Go-On II was the second example and featured a home-built frame, a differential, radiator, and wheels from a Jaguar SS. The front brakes and gearbox were sourced from an Alfa Romeo 6C. When the original Lancia Astura motor failed to impress, Olsson replaced it with a triple-carbureted Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 unit. The bodywork resembled the Alfetta 158 voiturette and was crafted by coachbuilding workshop Svedbergs.

Olsson raced the Go-On II in Scandinavian events for four years, often wearing special ice-tires with 30-millimeter studs.

Near the close of the 1950s, the Go-On II was acquired in as-raced condition by a Swedish automotive museum where it would reside for over 55 years, leaving when it was sold to its current caretaker in 2015. A sympathetic mechanical restoration soon followed using many period parts sourced from Italy. It remains largely period-correct and similar to the condition it was in when it left the track at the end of 1954.

By Daniel Vaughan | Jan 2025