The descriptions of the Classic Cars in the Directory were partly generated or supplemented with the help of artificial intelligence (AI). The content may occasionally not always be entirely accurate or factually correct despite careful checking.
The Kurtis KK 500 1954 was a custom-built racecar that was designed to conquer the dirt tracks of America. This car was constructed by the renowned racing car constructor Frank Kurtis, who had an illustrious career in building some of the best cars of his time. The KK 500 was one of his most popular models, and it was known for its exceptional strength, speed, and power.
At its core, the KK 500 was powered by a 363 cubic inch Offenhauser I4 engine. This was a four-cylinder engine that generated a whopping 400 horsepower, which was enough to propel the car to extraordinary speeds. The engine was coupled with a four-speed manual transmission system that allowed the driver to smoothly shift between gears for optimum speed and control.
The car had a lightweight frame that was made of aluminum, magnesium, and chrome molybdenum steel. This frame was designed to be aerodynamic, which helped the car slice through the air with minimal resistance. The car's suspension system was composed of two independent front suspension arms and torsion bars, while the rear suspension was a de Dion setup. This suspension setup provided the car with excellent handling and stability, which allowed the driver to take turns at high speeds with ease.
The braking system on this car was equally impressive. The KK 500 had two hydraulic disc brakes on the front wheels and two hydraulic drum brakes on the rear wheels. These brakes provided the car with immense stopping power, which was necessary when driving at high speeds on the dirt tracks.
The steering system on this car was a rack and pinion setup, which made handling the car a breeze. The car had 15-inch magnesium Halibrand wheels that were wrapped in 6.00 x 15-inch Firestone racing tires. The total weight of the car was just 1,850 pounds, which made it incredibly agile and nimble on the track.
The KK 500 had a sleek and stylish exterior that was designed for speed. The car had a long nose, a low profile, and a sloping hood that gave it a stunning appearance. The car's paint job was typically bright red, which made it stand out on the track.
Overall, the Kurtis KK 500 1954 was an exceptional car that was built for speed and endurance. Its technical specifications were cutting-edge for its time, and it was one of the most popular racecars of the 1950s. This car still holds a special place in the hearts of automobile enthusiasts today, thanks to its exceptional performance, unparalleled looks, and its place in the history of American racing.
Milestones
- The Kurtis KK 500 was designed and built by legendary hot rod and racing car innovator, Frank Kurtis. - It was introduced in 1954 and was produced until 1955. - The car featured a lightweight aluminum body and was powered by a 190 horsepower Offenhauser 4-cylinder engine. - The KK 500 was primarily designed for racing, and was very successful in competition. - In 1954, Jimmy Davies drove a KK 500 to victory in the famous Pikes Peak Hill Climb. - The following year, the KK 500 won the first-ever SCCA national championship in the D-Modified class. - The Kurtis KK 500 remains an iconic example of 1950s American sports car racing.Technical
- Model: Kurtis KK 500 - Year: 1954 - Type: Open-wheel race car - Chassis: Chromium-molybdenum steel tube frame - Suspension: Independent front and rear, with coil springs and telescopic shock absorbers - Brakes: Four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes - Engine: 4.4-liter Ford V8 with Hilborn fuel injection - Power: 250 horsepower - Transmission: 4-speed manual - Top speed: Approximately 150 mph - Weight: Approx. 1,500 lbs. - Wheelbase: 87 inches - Track width: 56 inches front, 58 inches rear - Steering: Marles Weller worm-and-roller steering box - Tires: Custom-built Racing Associates ribbed front tires and slick rear tires - Fuel capacity: 40 gallons - Driver position: Offset to the left side of the car - Bodywork: Aluminum body panels, hand-formed over wooden buck - History: Driven by notable drivers such as Jim Rathmann and Johnny Mantz in various racing events, including the Indianapolis 500.CLASSIC CAR MATCHER