1950 Kurtis Midget
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Year of manufacture1950
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Car typeOther
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Lot number181
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Reference number35XXyVfQxHwXuoumIONH2h
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DriveLHD
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ConditionUsed
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Location
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Exterior colourOther
Description
During the Great Depression and in the years following WWII, American midget racing became a national obsession. Across county fairgrounds and city speedways, open-wheel racers tore through dirt and pavement oval tracks. These cars were the machines of legends, and no name looms larger in the golden age of midget racing than Kurtis-Kraft.
This 1950 Kurtis-Kraft Midget Racer is an authentic example of Frank Kurtis’ renowned craftsmanship, a builder whose dominance in Midgets, Sprint Cars, and IndyCars reshaped American racing. Purchased in 1990 by Mitchell Rasansky, this car was entrusted to motor sports specialist Bob Willey of Moline, Illinois, for a concours-quality restoration. Notably, Willey is the son of an original Kurtis-Kraft distributor, lending the project both historical insight and mechanical integrity. Restored in period-correct ivory white livery with red scallops, the No. 75 and “Dalton Offy” are proudly lettered across its nose in engine-turned gold leaf, and the driver seat is trimmed with pleated red upholstery.
Powering this Midget Racer is the legendary 110 cid Offenhauser DOHC inline-four engine paired with twin Riley sidedraft carburetors, a powerplant that dominated midget racing of the era. Power routes through a direct in-out gearbox to a Halibrand quick-change rear end. Whether destined for a concours lawn or race paddock, this Kurtis-Kraft Midget Racer offers a rare opportunity to own a tangible piece of American racing heritage.
*Please note that this vehicle is sold on a Bill of Sale.
