There were nearly 400 Kurtis Midget racing cars built from 1945-1952 and they were the best of their kind at the time. This 1948 Kurtis Kraft Upright Midget won 32 “feature” midget races, 1948-1978 and placed 4th in the National AAA competition in 1954.
The current owner set an FIA international speed record in it at Bonneville Salt Flats in 1989 at a speed of 156.902.
Overview
- Production Year: 1948
- Manufacturer: Kurtis Kraft
- Class: Midget race car
Design and Specifications
- Engine:
- The 1948 Kurtis Kraft Upright Midget typically featured a small, high-performance engine designed for racing.
- Common engines used in these midget racers included Offenhauser (Offy) four-cylinder engines, known for their power and reliability.
- Engine displacement varied, but the focus was on maximizing power output within the constraints of midget racing regulations.
- Transmission:
- The car featured a simple and robust transmission system designed for quick acceleration and high-speed performance on short tracks.
- The transmissions were often two-speed or three-speed units, optimized for racing conditions.
- Chassis:
- The chassis of the Kurtis Kraft Upright Midget was constructed from lightweight tubular steel, providing a strong yet lightweight frame.
- The wheelbase was typically around 70-72 inches, contributing to the car's agility and responsiveness on tight oval tracks.
- Suspension:
- The front suspension commonly used a solid axle with transverse leaf springs or torsion bars.
- The rear suspension often featured a solid axle with torsion bars or coil springs, providing stability and handling precision.
- Brakes:
- The midget racer was equipped with mechanical or hydraulic drum brakes, designed to offer sufficient stopping power for the high-speed racing environment.
Performance
- Top Speed: The Kurtis Kraft Upright Midget could achieve impressive speeds for its class, often reaching up to 100 mph (160 km/h) on the straights of a midget racing track.
- Acceleration: The car was known for its rapid acceleration, crucial for the short, quick races typical of midget racing.
- Handling: With its lightweight construction, short wheelbase, and precise suspension setup, the Kurtis Kraft Midget offered excellent handling and maneuverability, essential for navigating the tight corners and high banks of midget racing tracks.
Design Features
- Bodywork:
- The body of the Kurtis Kraft Upright Midget was sleek and aerodynamic, with a low, narrow profile designed to reduce drag and enhance speed.
- The open-wheel design and minimalistic bodywork reflected the car's racing-focused purpose.
- Cockpit:
- The cockpit was designed for a single driver, with a simple yet functional layout.
- Safety features were minimal by modern standards, but the design emphasized quick driver entry and exit.
- Styling:
- The car's styling was functional and focused on performance, with a distinctively aggressive look that made it a favorite among racing enthusiasts.
Legacy and Historical Significance
- Historical Significance:
- The Kurtis Kraft Upright Midget played a pivotal role in the development of midget car racing in the United States.
- Frank Kurtis's designs set new standards for performance and innovation in the racing industry.
- Cultural Impact:
- These midget racers became iconic in the post-war racing scene, drawing large crowds to dirt and paved tracks across America.
- The success of Kurtis Kraft cars helped popularize midget racing and cement its place in American motorsport culture.
Taken at the Hilton Head Island Concours d'Elegance & Motoring Festival.
You may purchase a print of the 1948 Kurtis Kraft Upright Midget in our dElegance 2014 online gallery.
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