MIDGET CARS.

Auckland Star, Volume LXV, Issue 239, 9 October 1934, Page 16

MIDGET CARS.

RACING IN UNITED STATES,

POPULAR NEW SPORT.

1 Midget car racing is becoming a popular sport in U.S.A. The engine must not exceed 1040 c.c. if of fourcycle type, or 1000 c.c. if two-cycle. No .superchargers are to be used, and but ono carburettor is permissible. The wheel base has to be within the limits sft Gin to Oft 4in, and the track between 3ft 4in and 3ft Oin. A flexible steering wheel, is compulsory, and a fireproof wall or bulkhead between engine and driver is required. The road wheels must have a 10-inch to 12-inch rim, and the ground clearance must exceed 4in. Perhaps the most interesting rule is that governing the size of the wheels. This is to ensure a low centre of gravity, as the idea of this type of competition is to give the spectators all the thrills they desire without an undue risk to drivers. The races are held usually on a fifthmile flat dirt track, which limits the speed, further resulting in safety. With a weight of 41cwt to 7cwt, the sturdy little cars take the turns with great case and possess tremendous acceleration, attaining 00 m.p.h. on the short straights. In a 30-lap final the winner averages around 40 ni.p.li.