News flash: Cadillac joins Ford and Chevrolet in the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans race!
In 1950, they entered two “Le Monstre” cars based on the 1950 Cadillac Coupe Series 61. These quirky cars, designed by aerodynamicist Howard Weinman, had a monstrous appearance due to their streamlined bodies. This marked Cadillac’s return to the race series and made them the first American brand to participate since World War II.
France is loving the arrival of Cadillac, the first US brand to hit Le Mans since the war. Plus, let’s not forget that American forces freed Le Mans before even getting in on the racing action!
An American tycoon and thrill-seeker named Briggs Cunningham revved his way through a race despite getting stuck on the second lap, still managing to nab the 11th spot. He was behind the wheel of a beastly car known as “Le Monstre” which roared around Circuit de la Sarthe at a blistering 130 mph with its V8 engine with five carburetors.
Feeling inspired after the race, Cunningham launched his own car company by snagging Frick-Tappet Motors. His mission? To become the first US automaker to win at Le Mans with his own cars. While the original models were fitted with Cadillac engines, Cunningham made a strategic move by teaming up with Chrysler and snagging their powerful engines to propel his cars to glory.
The US didn’t do so great under Cunningham, but they made up for it at the 1966 24 Hours of Le Mans. Ford rocked the race with their GT40 and showed Ferrari who was boss. No other American car company has ever taken that victory in Europe.
Fast forward to now and Cadillac is still racing for the long haul with their V-LMDh. It might not look as crazy as Le Monstre, but that V8 and electric motor combo will give you chills.
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