RETRO: Nissan pays Homage to Safari Winner

1970 Datsun 240Z Replica Rally Car. (Image source: zcarblog.com)

 

Although not sure how far the new 2023 Nissan Z-Car would last on the torturous Dakar…

 

Following the Formula 1 Drivers World Championship being “done ‘n dusted,. which I “watched” live in it’s entirety. Finding it fairly anti-climatic upon it being obvious that Lando Norris would prevail as the F1 Drivers World Champion elect, Sigh…

 

As a calmness permeated over me, I decided to “see” what Motor Trend TV was airing that afternoon? Who were running a marathon block ‘O Custom Carolina, a Car show I’d never heard of before. Which I have to say sounded a lot like Iron Resurection to Mwah…

 

The show was based around Tommy Pike customs, a renown South Carolina automobile customization company, housed in a 30,000 square foot facility. With a total of 12 episodes being made for it’s lone 2023 season.

 

The episode that “Peaked” my Attenzione was the building of a Safari tribute seventh generation Nissan Z-Car for the 2023 SEMA show in Las Vegas.

 

Although in the typical reality TV genre, they only had less than half the normal 9-12 months build time, i.e.; five months to finish the transformation. Which I’d say wasn’t a true Rally Raid conversion.

 

I say this, since the engine seemed largely untouched, with the exception of the addition of a new intercooler, heat exchanger, air filter and some composite trim piece. Turning out to be a carbon fibre engine cover. Along with a larger stainless steel exhaust system.

 

The main change was the addition of a two inch lift kit, including custom “One-off” coil over “Dampers” built specifically by Nissan. Along with a custom aluminum skid plate created to protect the vital radiator, oil pan and other important motive parts of the car’s “snout”. Which may also function as a new front bumper “Brush” guard.

 

The lift kit enabled smaller diameter 17-inch wheel rims to sport “taller” off-road rubber. Necessitating new braking components, i.e.; discs, rotors, etc.

 

The interior had a custom harness bar installed, connecting four-point seat harnesses. Along with the requisite rollbar.

 

The Recaro seats were perforated, a la the 1971 Datsun 240Z Rally Car Nissan was paying tribute to. Along with various old school navigator stop watches/clocks/timing gear, navigator’s tray, etc.

 

As Tommy (Pike) at one point of the episode flies to Atlanta, to check out noted Car Collector Randy Jaffe’s replica 1970 Datsun 240Z tribute Rally Car.

 

Being Blind, have I mentioned that lately Y’all? Obviously I couldn’t see if the custom made tyre rack sat inside or outside the rear hatch? Since they talked about having to modify it to fit. But don’t know its location or how many spare tyres it carries?

 

Although later, I discerned that the original 1971 240Z Rally Car carried two spare tyres inside of the rear hatch, so Arse-sumedly the Nissan Z-Car mimicked this…

 

Nissan Safari Rally Z Tribute Car

 

Rotating spotlights were affixed to the top of the new Z-Car’s “A” pillar, which I’m pretty sure is the pillar supporting the font windshield. While further homage to the 240Z Rally car was paid with several fog lights being mounted on the front hood. All the while with the repeated mentioning of sending custom parts off for powder coating.

 

Whilst I’ve got zero clue what the graphics package looked like? Other than supposedly sporting the No. 23, being in reference to the new Nissan Z-Car’s debut, Righto?

 

As mentioned, this new Safari tribute Nissan Z-Car was built to honour Nissan’s motor racing heritage, specifically it’s 19th East Africa Safari Datsun 240Z winner. With Edgar Herrman and Navigator Hans Schuller winning the grueling 3,800-plus miles event in 1971. Being Nissan’s second, consecutive East Africa Rally win. With the three 240Z’s entered finishing 1-2-7.

 

1971 Datsun 240Z Rally legend

 

Having further learned that Herrman, who’s of no known relation to Hans Herrman, had also won the 1970 East Africa Safari Rally behind the wheel of a Datsun 1600SSS. Reportedly a modernized version of the well known Datsun 510. Which John Morton drove those BRE Datsun 510’s (Brock Racing Enterprises) to great success in the Trans Am 2.5-litre category.

 

Growing up, for years, and its probably still here in a box somewhere? I had a large, glossy tri-fold paper catalog of Tamiya plastic model kits. Which I totally recall having this very same 1971 Datsun 240Z on it’s front page, which I think was in large, 1:12 scale? Although back then, I wasn’t interested in Rally Cars…

 

Yet I have to say that my favourite vintage Rally Car is the Lancia Stratos, for which Yuhs guessed it! I’ve got a 1:18 Kyosho diecast sitting in a box here in Tomaso Manor. While I’m also partial to the Ford Escort Rally Car…

 

Meanwhile, back on Halloween, 2023. Randy’s (Jaffe) 1970 vintage 240Z Rally Car was on loan to Nissan and sitting side-by-side with the new 2023 Nissan Z Safari tribute car. Which would have been pretty Cool, DaddiO’ to see!

 

Randy Jaffe’s 1970 240Z Safari Tribue Car

 

Naturally, all of this Rally talk made me wonder about this year’s touted DAKAR, once again taking place in Saudi Arabia between January 3-17. Meaning we’re on Stage-6 Me Thinks? Since Saturday’s first stage was the Prologue, before the 13 race stages commenced in anger.

 

As reigning “Cars” winner El Matador’, aka Carlos Sain is defending His title now driving one of M-Sport’s Brawny Fort Raptor T1 PickemUp’ trucks. Although I’ve got zero clue how Carlos or any of the other competitors are doing… 

Racing Never Sleeps!

But your Humble, Hapless No Fenders Scribe Tomaso sure is tired!

 

When does too much information apply to trying to continuously keep up with Der Wurld de Motorsporten, Ja-Ja?

 

Although I found these two recent Sports Car items of interest popping up on thoust radar screen. As the Sports Car ecosystem tends to overflow Open Wheel Racing…

 

Perhaps you’ve read about Hyundai’s launching of its Genesis Magma Racing team? With the announcement taking place in Dubai a fortnight ago. As renderings and a scale model of the GMR-001 Le Mans Daytona Hybrid (LMDH) prototype were revealed along with the team’s first two drivers. With Andre Lotterer and Pipo derani on hand.

 

As the team will spend next year testing its brand new racecar before running a two car factory effort in the FIA World Endurance championship (WEC) in 2026. With a yet to be named “service provider” running its IMSA GTP campaign in 2027.

 

Naturally current Hyundai Michelin Pilot challenge entrant Brian Herta Autosport (BHA) has to be thought of. Whilst perhaps Chip Ganassi Racing might also be in the fray for the IMSA GTP effort?

 

Hyundai Motorsports Boss Cyril Abiteboul, who just led Hyundai to this year’s World Rally championship drivers title with Thierry Neuville and co-driver Martijn Wyadaeghe . Will serve as Genesis Magma Racing’s (GMR) team principal.

 

Cyril’s name is quite familiar to Mwah. Having first become aware of the Frenchman when serving as the executive director of Renault Sport F1 between 2010-12. Then becoming Caterham F1 team principal between 2013-14. Before returning to Renault as its managing director between 2014-20.

 

Although Abiteboul’s best remembered to Mwah for losing His bet with then Renault F1 driver DannyRic’, aka Daniel Ricciardo. That He’d get a tattoo if Ricciardo claimed a podium finish, which occurred at the 2020 Eiffel Grand Prix! As reportedly, Abiteboul sports a vintage Renault logo with a stylized Honey Badger tattoo on His right calf…

 

Also of note, GMR will team with IDEC Sports for 2025 in the Europena Le Mans Series, (ELMS) racing an Oreca LMP2 prototype to acclimatize themselves to Sports Car racing.

 

Interestingly the driver trio will consist of ex-Williams F1 driver Logan Sargeant. Paired with Jamie Chadwick, Indy NXT winner and, British GT4 and triple W Series champion, and 19yr old Mathys Jaubert. As the French teenager has been making waves in the Porsche Carrera GT Cup France series, elevating Him to the Porsche Carrera GT Cup Asia series this year…

Having run across this Marshall Pruett podcast interview with Jamie Chadwick following scribbling’ this story…

 

https://marshallpruett.podbean.com/e/mp-1562-catching-up-with-jamie-chadwick/

The GMR-001 will be based upon a Oreca LMP2 chassis, with liberal Genesis styling cues, with its engine being a twin turbocharged V-8.

 

The team will be based out of the Paul Ricard circuit at Le Castellet, nearby Oreca and IDEC. All of which sounds like Heady days for the Hyundai backed programme.

 

The other tantalizing news, albeit not surprising, since Lamborghini’s withdrawal from the “Weckity-Wec”, nee World Endurance Championship has left Iron Lynx in a lurch. With the team opting to switch manufacturer’s for its Iron Dames LM GT3 programme. Dropping its Lamborghini Huracan in favour of a Porsche 911

 

Iron Dames will contest a multitude of series, i.e.; IMSA’s Michelin Endurance Cup, FIA World Endurance Championship, European Le Mans Series and the Asian Le Mans Series. All with the latest spec Porsche 911 GT3 racecar, contesting the GT3 category Internationally, and the GTD category Stateside.

 

The driver quartet will be made up of regular’s Rahel Frey, Michelle Gatting and Sarah Bovy. With newcomer Celia Martin.

Part of the multi-year Porsche effort sees Gatting being promoted to Porsche factory driver status. While “I Know Nothing” Herr Schultz! About Celia Martin…

 

Having just learned that the 33yr old French le Femme (Martin) is currently a Bronze rated driver who’ll make up part of the Iron Dames core FIA “Weckity Wec” squad. Having joined Iron Dames in European competition last year.

 

Gatting, Frey and Bovy will be the core drivers of the Proton Competition IMSA GTD entry, with perhaps Doriane Pin joining them again at Daytona?

 

As Iron Dames became the first All Female squad to win in WEC, claiming the final GTE Am race at Bahrain in 2023. 

Wrapping Up more Father Son Racer Duos

For those who aren’t sick of this Story!

 

Yeah, if you’re still reading my No Fenders tome about Father and son racers, Y’all know it’s time to put this story to Bed! As here goes the last handful of names I thought of when beginning this. Which by All means, is not complete! Since I’m totally Overlooking some of Roundy-rounds greats, i.e.; Earnhardt’s, Petty’s and Allison’s for starters. Or Gurney and Hill, as in both Phil and Graham Hill, Oh Never Mind!

 

Jan Magnussen, better known as MAGS’, is probably far better known for His long, illustrious Sports Car career. Becoming synonymous with Corvette Racing’s Uber’ successful GT racing efforts, including four Class wins at Le Mans. And now is winding down His racing career in LMP2 prototypes.

 

Yet MAGS’ actually began as a Formula 1 Pilote racing briefly for McLaren, followed at Stewart Grand Prix. Before switching Stateside to drive Indy Cars for El Capitano’, nee Roger Penske’s Marlboro Team Penske outfit. Then moving to Hogan Penske Racing and capping off His brief IndyCar spell at Patrick Racing.

 

MAGS’ son Kevin Bacon’ Magnussen is currently in what presumably will be His final year with the Haas F1 Team’s second spell. Having replaced the Fired Nikita Mazepin, also known as MazaSpin’, Youch! For the 2022 Formula 1 season.

 

Kevin began His F1 career driving for McLaren during His rookie campaign in 2014, before spending the following season as the team’s Test and Reserve Driver. Then moving onto Renault for 2016, and His first stint with Haas between 2017-20. Spending the 2021 season driving for Chip Ganassi Racing’s IMSA Sports Car team, which I’d expect Kevin will return to Sports Cars in 2025. Arse-sumedly in FIA World Endurance Championship or IMSA GTP…

 

Gilles Villeneuve is a legend with a brief and fiery F1 career, albeit losing His life behind the wheel of His iconic No. 27 rosso Ferrari at Zolder. Having just concluded another Grands Prix on Il Notre Dam at circuit Gilles villenueve…

 

Whilst Gilles son Jaque Villeneuve is one of only three drivers I can think of to have won both the Formula 1 (1997) and IndyCar Championships! (1995) Along with winning the 1995 Indianapolis 500. And then much later racing in the Daytona 500 and the FIA World Endurance Championship.

 

Oh Yeah, how could I forget one of “Jaque Vanilla”, a la Jacques Villeneuve’s biggest Arch nemesis? Michael and Mick Schumacher, Eh? Uhm, I suppose since Der Terminator’, nee Michael Schumacher’s been Asleep at the Wheel for over a decade now. Having just read that Michael’s wife Corina’s spending an estimated $7.0 million Euros per year to care for Michael, and continue having a glimmer of “Hope” that He’ll recover. What can I say or write about Herr Schumacher, eh?

 

As Michael’s son Mick Schumacher still clings to Dreams of returning to a Formula 1 cockpit after a brief stint with Haas F1 as Mazepin’s teammate. With Mick currently serving as Mercedes F1 Test and Reserve driver, along with racing for Alpine in the FIA World Endurance Championship. (WEC) Racing alongside Nicolas Lapierre and Matthieu Vaxiviere in the No. 36 Alpine A424 (LMDH) Hybrid.

 

Whilst I believe that Michael featured as the mystery Stig’ driver during one season of Top Gear? As in Stig Blomqvist, the World Rally championship champion in 1984.

 

With son Tom “the Bomb!” Blomqvist, a being a rookie IndyCar this season, albeit having been “Parked” following His first lap accident in this year’s Indianapolis 500. Being replaced by David Malukas beginning at Laguna Seca. And will apparently sit-out the remainder of the season before returning to MSR’s rumoured Sports Car return next year…

 

And speakin’ of Rallying legends, I suppose I’d be remiss for not mentioning el Matador’, aka Carlos Sainz, who at age 61, just broke His previous record for Oldest winner of the Dakar! His fourth Dakar victory, along with His two WRC titles!

 

Whilst His son Carlos Sainz Jr is currently racing for la Scuderia in Formula 1. Although Sainz Jnr will be replaced by Lewis Hamilton at Ferrari next year. While we wait to learn where the young Spaniard lands next year in F1, albeit the Doors are closing quickly on 2025 options…

 

Alas, I’m afraid this riveting No Fenders post could go on and on. Especially since when I first began typing this. I’d just learned when recently completing my American Open Wheel Racing ladder feature about Nicolas Giaffone, winner of the 2023 USF Juniors Championship. Whose father Felipe Giaffone was the 2001 IRL Rookie Of the year. (ROY)

 

Whilst I most fondly recall Felipe being at an Indianapolis Mall the Babys R US store me Thinks? Shopping for son Nicolas when A.J. foyt called Him to qualify a third Foyt entry for the 2005 Indianapolis 500. Which He successfully bumped Arie Luyendyk Jr. from the field. 

LE MANS: 2022 Postmortem Notes

    Although does Anybody remember last year’s race?

 

Whilst I Don’t Begrudge them any, since Toyota could have pulled out of the FIA World Endurance Championship, (WEC) or Weckity Wec’ as Racer’s Marshall Pruett enjoys calling it! For which we’d just have had three top tier LMH Hypercars remaining. With one of them being a Grandfathered LMP1 machine.

 

Nonetheless, I knew that Toyota would win again for the fifth year in-a-row, Yawn! Along with locking out the first two finishing places. Meaning I Didn’t bother getting up Uber’ early Sunday morning to watch the end of the race. Or even bother at All trying to catch any of the last hour’s action…

 

Former Scuderia Toro rosso Formula 1 driver Brendon Hartley stuck His NO. 8 Toyota GR010 Hybrid on Pole position ahead of the sister No. 7 Toyota. For which is exactly how the two Toyota’s finished the race. With Hartley and Co-drivers Sebastien Buemi and Ryo Hirakawa standing atop the Le Mans podium.

 

Interestingly, it seems like Thar was more Noise made during the race over the fact that the 2023 Garage 56 entry would be a NASCAR Camaro Chevrolet ZL1 adapted for 24 Hours race duration, partially honouring NASCAR’s 75th Anniversary.

 

As it seemed Odd to Mwah how much Hype was being made about this, especially with one year remaining.

 

For which we now know that 2009 F1 world Champion Jenson Button, Seven-times NASCAR Champion Jimmie Johnson and Two-times 24 Hours of Le Mans winner Mike Rocky’ Rockenfeller will be it’s three Pilotes. With IMSA Sports Car Ace Jordan Taylor as Reserve.

 

And reportedly, the Camaro ZL1 being utilized for the project overseen by Hendrick Motorsports is basically a current Next Gen NASCAR Camaro with modifications for running 24 Hours at Circuit de la Sarthe.

 

Meaning I guess that the drivers will still have to climb in and out of Thar Stock Car, which utilizes a current spec 358cid displacement 5.8-litre Chevrolet Small Block naturally aspirated V-8 lump’. Along with Headlights Braking upgrades and a larger 32 gallon fuel tank. For which if Y’all are curious, you can surf the Web for the #24 Camaro ZL1’s Full Specs…

 

Yet speaking of General Motors, Err Chevrolet. Things didn’t pan out quite so well for the two Corvette C8.R’s, with both entries failing to finish; both being classified as DNF. (Did Not Finish)

 

As the NO. 63 retired on lap-260 due to an Accident, whilst the #64 retired on lap-214 with Suspension failure…

 

Meanwhile Portland, Oregon’s Josh Pierson did indeed become the youngest ever driver to start the 24 Hours of Le Mans at Age 16 years and 118 Days. For which Racer had a good article upon the experience of previous record holder Matt McMurry’s experience also as a 16yr old teenager Wayback’ in 2014.

 

https://racer.com/2022/06/09/16-year-old-pierson-set-to-become-youngest-le-mans-racer-ever/

 

As I’ve previously scribbled Here upon No Fenders about the upcoming Oregonian, whose currently racing both Sports Cars and Indy NXT. Although it appears that Josh’s primary “Day Job” of contesting both the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship and FIA World Endurance Championship’s (WEC) LMP2 category’s is limiting His success on the Open Wheel Racing side! With just two finishes of P17-16 to Date, (prior to Detroit) seeing Him classified 20th and last points-wise.

 

 Even though He’s been signed to a IndyCar Development Driver contract with Ed Carpenter Racing. (ECR)

 

http://www.nofenders.net/2022/12/piersons-nxt-2-moves.html

 

And since I didn’t bother tuning into the end of the race, naturally I missed the facts that the No. 91 Porsche 911 RSR-19 of “Jimmy” (Gianmaria) Bruni, Richard Lietz and Frederic Makowiekcki won the final LMGTE Pro Class category. Or that IMSA stalwart Gentleman Driver Texan Ben Keating was part of the winning #33 TF Sport Aston Martin Vantage with Marco Sorensen and Henrique Chaves as Co-drivers in the LMGTE Am category Finishing 34th Overall…

 

Whilst perusing the final results, I’d totally forgotten that Mega Bad-Arse Eight-times WRC Champion Sebastien Ogier had made His 24 Heurs du Mans debut in the LMP2 category. With the French Rallying legend finishing 13th Overall, driving aboard the No. 1 Richard Mille Racing entry. Finishing one place ahead of the #23 United Autosports entry that Josh Pierson was co-driving.

 

And that one of my sentimental favourites, the No. 85 Iron Dames Ferrari 488 GTE Evo with Femme Fatales Sarah bovy, Rahel Frey and Michele Gatting finished 40th Overall.

 

And now it’s onto this year’s 91st Edition, the Centenary running of this fabled endurance race. Which features a massive 16 Hypercar entries. Over three times last year’s entrants in the premiere Class!

 

Time for Another Day-toner’ 500

But Which of our Unheralded Cup Interlopers will Make the Show?

 

Otay, so much for Ye No Fenders Blog moniker. Although this is about the only time of year I bother paying Any close Attenzione to Dem’ RASSCAR’ Taxicab Bombers. As I can hardly wait to Hear Mike Joy telling us how Thar the Gurr-Reatest’ Drivers in the World, Barf!

 

As what a difference a year makes, Eh? Since around this time last year, All of the Buzz was over some former Formula 1 Champion from Up North Eh! Named Jacques Villeneuve had impressively made His way into His Debutante 500 on Qualifying Speed…

 

Yet I have to say I’m most interested this February over whether or not Travis Pastrana could “race” His way into this year’s Daytona 500?

 

Tend to believe it was Fox’s New Pitlane Reporter Josh Somebody who made the comment. Noting that Travis was a “Big dude!” And He looked like He could be a tight end!

 

As Y’all may know, NASCAR has 36 Franchise, Err Charter Member entries for it’s series, ensuring participation in All of it’s races. Leaving just four “Slots” open on the Grid for Non Charter Teams to attempt making the race.

 

And with Jimmie Johnson having bought an Ownership Stake in what’s now known as Legacy Motor Club, the former Petty GMS Racing operation, albeit “The King!” Aka Richard Petty still has a partial ownership in the new entity. You’d have to say that Johnson’s, whose running a limited season schedule is pretty much a Slam Dunk, meaning there’s really only three places up for grabs at this year’s Great American race…

 

Pastrana is probably best known for His Amazing Motorcycle Stunt riding in the X Games, where He was the first to ever land a Double Backflip on a motorcycle! Along with being a Four-times consecutive SCCA Rally America Champion. Also racing in the World Rally Championship, (WRC) and other guises of Rally Car racing. Not to mention Stadium Trucks and Hosting His Nitro Circus TV Show.

 

Travis previously contested the then Nationwide Cup lite’ series circa 2012-2013, which I believe included finishing a race at Daytona International speedway going Backwards thru the grass after being collected in a late race accident! Plus making five RASSCAR Truck races, primarily at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.

 

As Pastrana will attempt making His Daytona 500 debut driving the third 23/XI Racing No. 67 Toyota Camary, alongside it’s regular season drivers Darrell “Bubba” Wallace (#23) and Tyler Reddick. (#45)

 

Yet I have to say I’m most interested this February over whether or not Travis Pastrana can “race” His way into this year’s Daytona 500?

 

Although one third of the Non Charter “Open” Cars took themselves out with mechanical issues before Travis rolled off for Qualifying. Suppose I shouldn’t have been surprised that Pastrana “raced” His way into the Daytona 500 by setting the second quickest Qualie’ time behind Jimmie Johnson. After all, you could say that Pastrana was in the second best car…

 

And the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 runners seem to be the most prolific of the Non Charter members at Day-Toner’. And Arse-sumedly also have the most regular season Cup entries overall. With Johnson’s third #84 Legacy Motor Club Bowtie’ entry presumably being the strongest.

 

As Johnson’s Full season “Employees” (Drivers) are Eric Jones in the iconic Petty No. 43 and Noah Gragson in the No. 42.

 

As Gragson’s apparently just one of two Full season Rookies in the Cup Series this year. As Gragson finished Runner-up to Ty Gibbs in last year’s Xfinity series, whose the other Cup rookie, naturally driving for Joe Gibbs Racing.

 

Gragson also made waves last summer when colliding with Sage Karam at Road America. Triggering a 13-car Pile-up and subsequently being Fined $35,000 and Docked 30 Drivers Points!

 

While Kaulig Racing will field a third #13 Camaro entry for Chandler Smith. With the team’s two regular season entries being the #16 of A.J. Allmendinger, one of three ex-IndyCar Drivers in the field. Along with Justin Haley in the team’s No. 31 entry.

 

Can Y’all figure out who the other two former IndyCar Driver’s  in this year’s Day-Toner’ 500 are?

 

As it sounds like Smith is being Fast-tracked for an eventual Cup future with Kaulig Racing. Since after spending time as a RASSCAR’ PickEmUp’ Trucks racer for Kyle Busch Motorsports. Smith has been tabbed to take over Allmendinger’s Cup lite (Xfinity) ride for the 2023 season. Along with attempting to make His Big Boyz’ Cup Debut at Daytona in a limited five race Cup campaign.

 

Not gonna say anything about His Car number, but! Being the very first Qualifier, His Chevy just simply wouldn’t keep running, as the engine just kept cutting Out! But surely Kaulig will rectify this for His Dual race…

 

While you’d have to think initially that Austin Hill driving the No. 62 Beard Motorsports Camaro is facing the steepest uphill battle of making the Show. Originally as one of only three single car team entries in the field.

 

Although ironically, this is the very same team that Gragson made His maiden Daytona 500 start for a year ago. With Gragson later giving the team it’s very first Top-5 finish in the summer’s Daytona race.

 

As the team has a technical alliance with Richard Childress Racing, (RCR) along with “leasing” chassis from RCR and utilizing ECR engines.

 

As I’ve just learned that Hill who won His maiden Xfinity race at Daytona last year ahead of A.J. Allmendinger on the race’s final lap, which was overshadowed by Myatt Snider’s vicious crash! Is a Richard Childress Racing Xfity Driver who won last year’s Xfinity Rookie Of the Year. Who also punched Snider in the face at Martinsville, following being Wrecked Out of the Xfinity Playoffs last year by Snider.

 

As Hill’s made one Monster Energy Cup Big Boyz’ start last year at Michigan and serves as Beard Motorsports Part-time Cup Driver.

 

Although He’d Hinted at it during Spring Training at the Thermal Club. Conor Daly made it official on February 7^th that He would attempt qualifying for this year’s Day-toner’ 500 aboard the No. 50 the Money Team Racing’s Camaro, bBecoming the fourth single car entry.

 

As Daly has one NASCAR Cup start to His credit, last year’s Charlotte Roval where He finished P34.

 

This upstart team, that made it’s first four starts in Cup last year is owned by Boxer Floyd Mayweather, and it would be phenomenal if Daly, whose “Day Job” is chauffeuring the No. 20 Ed Carpenter Racing Chevrolet IndyCar could somehow race His way into the Daytona 500. Yet Daly’s never driven at Daytona before, and with No practice is essentially going in “Blind!”

 

As Daly Didn’t even attempt Qualifying. And later told veteran Reporter Jamie Little that something had happened to the car’s Oil Heater having an electrical failure. At least I think that’s what He said? Since I Didn’t have the volume Jacked Up enough to Hear over the rumble of the Ontrack racecar!

 

Daly probably has the biggest “Mountain” to climb to make it into the show. But I appreciate His willingness to give it a shot. And who knows? The other three “Open” Drivers, I.e.; Chandler Smith, Austin Hill and Zane Smith vying for the final two Starting spots could All be involved in what RASSCAR’ loves calling “The Big One!” During their respective Dual races…

 

Meanwhile,  the Blue Oval, aka Ford sees just one Non Charter entry being a third Front Row Motorsports for Zane Smith. Who’ll attempt making the show in His No. 36 Ford Mustang alongside team regulars Michael McDowell in the #34 entry. With Todd Gillilan in the team’s No. 38 entry.

 

As Smith won the 2022 NASCAR Camping World Trucks Championship driving for Front Row Motorsports after finishing Runner-up in 2020-2021. And has also driven Part-time for Junior Motorsports in Cup lite and also raced in Robby Gordon’s Stadium Supertrucks Series.

 

OH yeah, in case you’re still reading? And Ah-Wonderin’ who the third former IndyCar Driver in this year’s field is? Look no further then the No. 51 Rick Ware Racing Ford Mustang with Cody Ware behind it’s wheel. As Cody joins A.J. Allmendinger and Michael McDowell for this Honour. Whilst Daly is a current IndyCar Driver… 

Carlos Reutemann: 1942-2021

As another Scuderia Ferrari driver crosses the finish line…

 

By now, Y’all have probably heard of Carlos Reutemann’s passing at the age of 79 on July 7th. And perhaps I’m wrong, since the Argentinian raced before my Formula 1 Baptism. But I’ve always considered him to be what my late Awnty’ Harriet called a Fat Head! Presumably from reading how he tangled with Niki Lauda and ignored team orders at Williams to gift team-mate Alan Jones a victory.

 

 

Since what did Bloody ‘Ol Churchill say about History being Kind to the victors? Whom after all get to write the History…

 

And I’m not gonna try giving a Blow-by-blow recap of his Formula 1 career, albeit he drove for three of the sport’s most luminous 1970/1980’s teams, i.e.; Ferrari, Lotus and Williams, along with beginning his F1 career driving for some bloke known as Uncle Bernaughty here on No fenders, aka Bernie Ecclestone’s Brabham outfit.

 

Reutemann claimed his first four Grands Prix victories driving Gordon Murray’s brilliant Brabham BT44 machinery, which I’ve always considered one of the best looking F1 chassis in it’s sparkling white Martini livery.

 

Then he moved to la Scuderia in 1976 originally as Niki “The Rat” Lauda’s replacement, as the Austrian struggled for his life after his near death experience at the “Green Hella,” nee Nordschleife!

 

As things got off to less than a rosy start when Niki miraculously returned quickly to the cockpit at Monza, where Ferrari was obliged to run three cars for it’s two regular season drivers Lauda and Clay Regazzoni, plus Reutemann who’d jump ship from Brabham and it’s unwieldy Alfa Romeo V-12 lumps in ’76 to Deputize for the injured Lauda.

 

And you’d have to say he had a pretty turbulent time at Ferrari, albeit he finished third overall in ’78 with four victories before an ill-timed move to Lotus the following year as Ronnie Peterson’s replacement.

 

Sir Frank then convinced Carlos to move to Team Willy’ between 1980-82 in what was another acrimonious campaign vs. World Champion team-mate Alan Jones, who vowed not to help Reutemann’s title defense at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas in 1981, where the Argentine ironically lost the title by one point to Brabham’s Nelson Piquet.

 

Reutemann abruptly quit Formula 1 after just two races in 1982, partially due to the Falklands War and being an “Outcast” in a staunchly British F1 team!

 

As Carlos capped his Formula 1 career with 12 Grands Prix victories and 6 Poles in 146 races, ironically the very same number of wins to his tally as somebody named SuperMario’, aka Mario Andretti. Not to mention his Bosom Buddy Jones, while Reutemann’s the last Argentine to win a Grand Prix.

 

Yet I was unaware that Reutemann dabbled in the World Rally Championship, (WRC) making two starts, first for FIAT in 1980 and then again in ’85 for Peugeot. And impressively finished third overall in his home rally of Argentina for both manufacturers. He was the only Formula 1 driver to score points in both Formula 1 and the WRC until Kimi Raikkonen finished 8^th in the 2010  Jordan Rally.

 

I also didn’t know that Carlos contested the 24 Heurs du Mans once for Scuderia Ferrari with Tim Scheken as Co-driver.

 

After his racing career, Reutemann went into politics, first becoming the Governor of his native Santa Fe and then later as a Senator.  

 

 But the part that most interests me about Reutemann I suppose is a Wee bitamyte’ maudlin, but I’m intrigued over how the Argentine becomes the fourth Scuderia Ferrari driver to die from la Scuderia’s 1970’s Flat 12 renaissance years. Joining Lauda, Clay regazzoni and Gilles Villeneuve. Along with Gilles Arch Nemesis Didier Pironi, the latter two leading another Ferrari resurgence in the early 1980’s Turbo era. Whilst arguably the greatest Ferrari F1 driver known here as Der Terminator’, aka Michael Schumacher’s still Asleep At the Wheel, wherever he is… 

AUTOS: A Few TV Car Show Rewinds

Although not your prototypical Muscle Car, the 'lil Lancia Fulvia Bred for Rallying Stardom definitely classifies as a "Hot Hatchback!" (Image source: classicdriver.com)

After All, shouldn't we All be getting Our Motors Revved Up over Memorial Day weekend, Going round 'N round in circles for 500 miles...

Ah, thoust continuous spray 'O synchronicity peppers thou Isle 'O Nofendersville again. Since the local Library's been closed over two months now, nearly three with No Gory Audiobooks to Check Out; Egads!

Meaning I've been actually utilizing my Cable TV Service quite Heavily, which typically sits Dormant weekly until Motor Racing arrives on the weekends; but I Digress...

Although it would be Cool if we could have either the 2011, 2013 or 2016 Indianapolis 500 races rebroadcasted Sunday! As we All know, those are All owned by ABC.

Yet NBC will Host an Extended Play 4 Hours Behemoth of last year's epic Indianapolis 500 Battle Royale of Simon Pagenaud v Alexander Rossi on the intended Date of  this year's 104th running of the Indy 500, with Rossi & Pagenaud as expert Driver Analysts beginning at 11AM Pacific.

Meanwhile ESPN2 will Host an All Day Open Wheel Racing Smorgasbord, albeit going Head-to-Head with NBC's Indy 500 Broadcast...

ESPN2 to Salute Monaco Grand Prix and Indy 500 with Encore Presentations

Thus during the COVID 19 "Lockdown," I began watching one Reality TV Car Show in particular, albeit not knowing they were actually re-broadcasting it.

The Show's called Graveyard Carz', since they deal only in resurrecting Vintage Automobiles, primarily Muscle Cars, albeit only Mopar variety - And I also somewhat  enjoy the lead Character, a Self Serving 70yr old male named  Mark Worman,, whom appears to be the Shop's Proprietor, along with the Head Cheese of said TV Show.

As the first episode I watched; Err well listened to in earnest revolved around an ultra rare

340cid V-8 "Three On-the-Tree" (3-Speed 1971 Plymouth Barracuda Convertible, with Mark claiming it was One of Only Eight cars ordered with the 3 Speed manual transmission.

Then the next few weeks following, albeit unknowingly the tail end of the current Season 10 were a retrospective upon the 1958 Christine tribute car they built for the 2019 SEMA Show, with the first All Aluminum 426 Hemi Crate motor given to them by Mopar churning out an Obnoxious 1,000Bhp in Supercharger guise! Which they called it Thee Hellephant...

This was Funny to Mwah, since the name Christine floated back up upon thoust Radar for another wonky, languishing No Fenders story about Car Movies currently on Ye Story Rotisserie...

and then when trying to figure out who that Mark Chap was, I was Bowled over in Bemusement upon learning that the show originates out of their shop located in Springfield, Oregon, just  a 90mins drive from Mwah, Momma Mia!

1958 Plymouth Fury Christine Tribute for SEMA build gets 1,000 Horsepower Hellephant engine

While I stumbled across the following article chronicling 13 of Graveyard Carz' Top Mopar Muscle Build Picks, which Y'all can check out in;

13 Coolest Muscle Cars on Graveyard Carz and two more that should be On the Show

Vintage Rides

• 1977 Porsche 924
• 1969 Opel GT
• 1972 Lancia Fulvia

Another Motor Trend TV show I've been enjoying whenever I'm able to run into it. Is called Wheeler Dealers, as I enjoy the cast members , primarily mechanic Ant Anstead, along with the lead role played by Mike Brewer.

Recently I decided to go on a Lazy Sunday afternoon's binge, and gorge Thyself upon three episodes back-to-back, having since discerned I was watching episodes from the 2018 season.

I chose to do so since I almost never indulge Thyself - And primarily due to Thee Uber' Soft Spot I have for the Porsche 924, specifically since 'Ol Pops', aka Tomas Senior once owned a pristine, brand new 1977 1/2 Silver 924, having previously regaled Y'all here on No Fenders with Ye following tome...

RETRO: My Father's Porsche...

If the Opel GT's the car I think it is, which I believe my late Cousin owned one of? Then it's a pretty cool ride. And this was the Funniest episode of the three, since Mike Dryly noted how it's Brakes were Stopping in Another state! And then calmly noting he thought he'd Broken the unique swivel Bucket Headlamps mechanical Arm inside the Cockpit, OOPSADAISY!

Yet what I mostly enjoy about this TV Show is their constantly Digging Up automotive Gems in the Rough I've either not heard of before or forgotten.

Case in point was the Lancia Fulvia, which I'd never heard of before, which returned this Italian Auto Manufacturer to Glory with its winning pedigree in World Rallying. While I was surprised to learn it was the first Factory Racecar following the Company's withdrawal from Motorsports, most notably Formula 1 in 1955 - when it was Sold to FIAT.

And that immediately made me recall the long forgotten, and presumably unknown to many Lancia D50 Formula 1 chassis, which ultimately Il Commendatore, nee Enzo Ferrari utilized to win the F1 World Championship with El Maestro', aka Juan Manuel Fangio at the controls in 1956, in what became known simply as the Ferrari D50.

Also, the Fulvia was the predecessor to the car that most easily comes to Thy lips when hearing the word Lancia, as in the All conquering Lancia Stratos

The car featured on this recent (2018) episode of Wheeler Dealers, which was obtained from a Sonoma, CA Wrecking Yard for $9,500 was a 1972 Lancia Fulvia Series II with a tiny 1.3-litre V-4 lump', which later I learned was "Laid Down" to give it a lower profile.

And apparently this "Wolf in Sheep's Clothing" isn't new to the TV Show, since they apparently poached a similar chassis a Decade earlier, which Y'all can check out in the "Teaser" video below.

VIDEO: Wheeler Dealers (2008) Lancia fulvia

Or Y'all might enjoy another  video I found on Youtube chronicling the Fulvia's Rallying History, which reached its Zenith by capturing the 1972 FIA International Championship For Manufacturers (ICFM) title, the precursor to today's FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) which commenced in '73. Although the Italian marque was running Thar Lancia Fulvia 1.6 Coupe HF in upgraded 1.6-litre guise, and Defeated it's FIAT Sibling's 124 Sport Spyder for this series final crown between 1970-72.

VIDEO: Lancia Fulvia Rally History

On a separate "Rally Stage," two prominent names, albeit presumably more contested this ICFM Series - Stand out to Mwah, with the late Ove Anderson and Gerard Larrousse competing as Rally Drivers, but that's a whole nother Wabbithole' for a different day...