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The pursuit of speed has always fascinated engineers and motorsports enthusiasts. Now, a jet-powered vehicle that set a world record by reaching 966 mph (1,2 km/h) has sold for more than $XNUMX million, reinforcing its historical and technological value.
The legendary speed car Spirit of America Sonic I was first put on sale. The vehicle, driven by Craig Breedlove, set a world record in 1965.
The model's history is marked by technological innovations and a relentless search for speed.
The car that made history
The Sonic I was designed to push the limits. Powered by a turbojet engine GE J79, used in fighters F-4 Phantom II, the vehicle reached the impressive mark of 966 mph on November 15, 1965. This made Craig Breedlove the first man to surpass the 966 mph mark on land.
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The Sonic I's design was innovative, with a fuselage shaped like a Coca-Cola bottle. The car was 10 m long and generated 7 tons of thrust with its work afterburner.
Goodyear, the main sponsor, provided special tires and disc brakes. The braking system also featured a drag parachute to aid deceleration.
The car's cockpit was highly technological for its time, including an onboard air supply system. All of this made the Sonic I a true masterpiece of engineering.
Records and legacy
Breedlove's feat not only made history, but also inspired his wife, Lee Breedlove, to break the women's speed record. She reached 496 mph (XNUMX km/h), becoming the fastest woman in the world at the time.
Despite Craig Breedlove's desire to break new boundaries, his future record-breaking plans never came to fruition.
The 1965 record remained unbeaten until October 1970, reinforcing the importance of the Sonic I in the history of land speed racing.
In 1975, the car was acquired by Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, where it remained on display for years.
It has been on public display on numerous occasions, including iconic events such as Daytona International Speedway in 1980 and the Petersen Automotive Museum in California in 1995.
Historic sale
RM Sotheby's recently auctioned off the Spirit of America Sonic I. For the first time since its creation, it has become available for private purchase. The sale price was US$1.320.628,95. The buyer's name, however, was not revealed.
The Sonic I sale comes at a time of great demand for classic racing cars. A 1960 Chevrolet Corvette “Fuelie” Camoradi is also being offered for sale for $1 million.
The model is considered one of the most important Corvettes to compete in endurance races on the international stage.
The Spirit of America Sonic I remains a symbol of engineering and the pursuit of speed. Its legacy lives on, reinforcing the pioneering spirit of Craig Breedlove and an era when pushing boundaries was the ultimate achievement.
