The Spirit of Autopower Comp Coupe is a pretty radical machine, and a staple in the land speed racing community. This thing is based off a little tiny first generation Honda Civic, but the rest is pure race machine. This thing is stretched and streamlined, and has been stupid fast at El Mirage and on the salt at Bonneville. If you have ever been to either race, you’ve seen the Spirit of Autopower 3. This is a special racing machine with a great history. But what happens when you take a machine like this and head out to the silty, soft, and unforgiving dirt that is the El Mirage dry lake bed? What if you are trying to run 250 mph? This is not for the faint of heart, and definitely not for the inexperienced.
So what happens to a machine like this when you hit a big bump out on the lake bed, while going nearly 230 miles per hour? You pucker up, that’s what happens. Watch this video and tell me that you wouldn’t have had to have a moment to collect your thoughts after this ride.
Video Description:
Experience the intense action and raw challenges of land speed racing at the iconic El Mirage dry lake bed with Team AutoPower and their legendary streamliner, The Spirit of AutoPower #131.
In tough windy conditions that had everyone concerned about safety, third-generation land speed racing driver Brad White pushed The Spirit of AutoPower #131 to an incredible 228 miles per hour. What started as a strong run quickly turned into a heart-pounding moment when the car struck a bump on the course.
Thanks to Brad’s exceptional skill, quick reactions, and a bit of luck, a potential disaster was avoided and the car stayed on track. Unfortunately, the high-speed impact severely damaged the quick-change rear end, ending the day’s runs for this passionate team. This video captures the highs and the very real dangers that come with chasing speed on the salt and dirt of El Mirage.
Huge respect to all the drivers, crews, and officials who make Southern California Timing Association (SCTA) events possible. Land speed racing demands courage, preparation, and deep respect for the conditions and fellow competitors every single time the cars run.
Team AutoPower
Driver: Brad White – Third Generation LSR Driver
Car: The Spirit of AutoPower #131
Event: SCTA El Mirage Land Speed Racing
