Aardvark Chassis

H Modified

Introduction

Engine: 745cc Dyna-Panhard, 42 bhp

Builder: John Porter, built in 1952

Current Owner: Don Racine in California

Don Racine reports, "Looking for a fun car for a low price, John Porter designed the car in 1952 for that purpose.  Porter used a standard Dyna-Panhard chassis and engine as the basis for the Aardvark.  Through some crafty home engineering, he reduced the weight of the car and then strengthened it by welding in some small tubes in all the right places.  The little 745cc, 42 horsepower Dyna-Panhard engine could actually breathe a little easier with less weight to move around, and the Aardvark was once clocked at 85mph.

The tiny car was driven around tracks named Torrey Pines, Pomona, and Santa Barbara in the fifties by drivers as obscure as the car itself -- Paul Lee, Faith Towers, Eliza- beth Galbally, Stu Haggart, and Carles Metcalf.  The Aardvark was even raced by a team called Ecurie Fatigue.  The car's successes were mixed, but it often gave larger cars fits with its quick, nimble handling.

If you see the Aardvark Special at a vintage event today, you will do two double takes.  The first one is obvious -- the way the Aardvark looks!  but the second double take will surprise you -- the impressive speed and handling as current owner, Don Racine, tosses the hearty little car around the track."³

"This little machine was no bomb, but it cornered on three wheels, maintaining the same speed as it had on the straight. As a training car it was perfect, setting John up with rudiments of roadracing without getting into trouble, and allowing him to become completely familiar with racing procedure. It was a sad day when John sold his trainer for graduation into a 550 Porsche Spyder.  The ad read: 'Aardvark Panhard. Get into racing in the most reasonable class. This car has worn down many faster opponents with dependability. Two engines, two transmissions, two chassis, 13 wheels and tires. Two new pistons and rings, Amal carburetor, my blessings $2000. REMEMBER: A LITTLE AARDVARK NEVER HURT ANYONE."¹

For Sale

The car has been posted for sale with offers being considered. Contact Don Racine, Nevada City, CA at

Tel: 530-470-8300
Email: Don@minimania.com