Midget Racing Car 'the Allen Special'

Midget racing is an American racing class that has existed since 1933. The race cars are small and ultra light (at most 450 kg) but have powerful four cylinder engines, giving them a favorable power to weight ratio and high performance.

Midget racing is an American racing class that has existed since 1933. The race cars are small and ultra light (at most 450 kg) but have powerful four cylinder engines, giving them a favorable power to weight ratio and high performance. Races are run over short distances, ranging from 4 to 40 kilometers, usually on oval, unpaved circuits, so called dirt tracks. The Midget Racing Car Allen Special shown here is powered by a 1,800 cc Offenhauser engine with two overhead camshafts and an output of around 170 hp. Midget races are still very popular. Although it is often seen as a stepping stone class, many drivers who have moved up remain loyal to the class because the races are always spectacular and highly competitive. The cars have been adapted to current safety regulations, which makes their appearance less attractive than that of older models.