How The Turbine Era Ended

As the 1968 Indianapolis 500 approached, chatter concerning the construction of multiple turbine-powered cars dominated the pre-race narrative


  • SPEED SPORT Staff

  • One of racing’s most respected historians, Bob Gates has been writing columns in SPEED SPORT for nearly three decades.

As the 1968 Indianapolis 500 approached, chatter concerning the construction of multiple turbine-powered cars dominated the pre-race narrative.

The year before Andy Granatelli had upended the sport with his four-wheel-drive, turbine-powered machine, dubbed “Silent Sam.” Parnelli Jones was nearly a full lap ahead of eventual winner A.J. Foyt when his turbine-powered car coasted to a stop four laps short of the checkered flag due to a failed transmission bearing.

 

Only Insiders Can View This Post.

Already have an account? Click here to sign in.

Not an Insider Yet?  Subscribe Now!

Trending