1958 Pontiac Chieftain USAC race car

Written by Jeff Zurschmeide
Courtesy of Mecum Auctions
  • Pontiac salesman’s demo car from Freeport, IL
  • Two months invested in race preparation
  • Entered in a 150-mile event at the Milwaukee Mile in July 1958, where it qualified fourth-fastest against factory-backed teams
  • Raced at Rockford, IL, 1960–62
  • Retired from competition in 1962
  • Discovered in 2005
  • Restoration completed in July 2012
  • 370/300-hp V8 engine
  • Harmon Collins roller camshaft
  • Venolia pistons
  • Dual point distributor
  • 3-speed manual transmission
  • Aluminum flywheel and clutch
  • 3.90 rear axle
  • Cadillac front drum brakes
  • Front and rear brake cooling ducts
  • Milwaukee Masterpiece Class Award
  • NPOC award
  • Meadowdale Raceway award
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