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1946 Solar Midget
Highlights
- Was occasionally driven by legendary American Midget Racer Frank Burany
- Previously owned by the Midget Museum in Missouri, USA
- Imported to France and fully restored to period specification
- Weighing just four hundred kilograms and powered by a Simca 2.3-litre flathead V8 engine
- Participated in the Normandy Beach Race 2023 and is eligible to return in 2025
The Plus
Designed to compete ondirt tracks but also to compete with sports cars in road circuit events, Midget Car Racing emerged after the war as a basic entry into competitive motor sport. These open-wheel cars used pre-war chassis, bodywork manufactured using newly discovered aeronautical techniques and a wide variety of prepared engines.
Here we have a very special example, built by the Solar Aircraft Company in 1946 on a Ford Model A chassis. It was used by American racing legend and member of the National Midget Auto Racing Hall of Fame, Frank Burany. The car then made its way to the Missouri Midget Museum and then to France, where it underwent a complete restoration, becoming the car we see today. The seller acquired it to compete in the 2023 Normandy Beach Race and we are told that it is eligible to return in 2025.
Powered by a Simca 2.3-litre 'flathead' V8 engine mated to a three-speed manual gearbox, this Solar Midget boasts 84bhp and weighs just four hundred kilograms. Unsurprisingly, there is enough performance to make this a very competitive historic race car and we are assured that it has been brought back to period specification during the restoration. Although there is some mechanical work to be done before it races again, this car is presented here in fantastic condition and is bursting with potential.
History and Documents
- Originally built by the Solar Aircraft Company in 1946
- Used by Frank Burany in the United States
- The seller has several photographs showing the car in competition at the time
- Previously owned by the Midget Museum in Missouri, USA
- Imported to France, requiring restoration
- Extensively restored to period specification
- Not registered or road legal
Condition
- Aluminium body on a Ford Model A chassis
- We are told that the paint scheme is a copy of the original livery
- The upholstery is in superb condition, copying the original materials (which also accompany the car)
- Restored to an excellent standard
- Extensive use of hammered aluminium
- Polished aluminium and chrome in good condition
- Vintage aluminium steering wheel in correct condition
- Instruments read clearly
Powertrain
- 2.3-litre V8 flathead engine from a Simca
- Three-speed manual gearbox
- Rear (drum) brakes only with hydraulic master cylinder
- Fifteen-litre rear fuel tank
- Twelve-inch front tyres, fifteen-inch rear tyres
- Stainless steel exhaust system
- The seller states that the valve guides need attention and that there is a slight leak in the radiator.
- Apart from the above defects, the car runs and drives very well
This sale is subject to Car & Classic's terms and conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights under EU consumer protection legislation do not apply. Car & Classic's returns policy applies.
✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your bid is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.
✓ This vehicle is "sold as seen", on an "as is where is" basis and without warranty. A full vehicle inspection prior to purchase is strongly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for illustrative purposes only.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final Auction or Bid price, as specified in the advert.
✓ Buyers are responsible for the collection or delivery of the vehicle. Importing vehicles may incur additional customs duties and import taxes. On request, Car & Classic can refer you to a third-party transport company. For further details, please email [email protected]. Prices start at €150 + VAT within the same country or €400 + VAT for cross-border journeys.
Vehicle specification
- Year 1946
- Make Solar
- Model Midget
- Colour Beige
- Odometer
- Engine size 2300
Listing Details
- Seller type Private
- Town Aube
- Location International
- Country France
The Gallery
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