Driving as fast as possible has been a challenge pursued by humans since the end of the 19th century. One of the most incredible and powerful machines in the history of supersonic automobiles will be auctioned by RM Sotheby’s at the end of February in Miami. 60 years ago, precisely on November 15, 1965, at the Bonneville Salt Flats, the Spirit of America Sonic I, designed and piloted by Craig Breedlove, was clocked at 600.601 mph or 966.574 km/h. Estimated between $500,000 and $1,000,000, this fabulous and historic supersonic machine is up for sale.
10 meters long, with 3 wheels and a fuselage shaped like a “Coca-Cola bottle” to cut through the air, and a GE J79 turbojet engine known for its use in F-4 Phantom II fighter jets, these are the main characteristics of the Spirit of America Sonic I. It should also be noted that in 1965, the Spirit of America Sonic I became the first machine to be equipped with a turbojet engine. A new era then began, that of the “hunt” for speed records with the use of turbojet engines.
Despite his ambition to push the limits further, Craig Breedlove, who passed away in April 2023 at the age of 86, undertook no further attempts after 1965. His 1965 record stood until October 1970.
However, it wasn’t until 1997 that the sound barrier was broken thanks to the ThrustSSC, another supersonic machine that reached 1,227.986 km/h (763.035 mph), piloted by former British fighter pilot Andy Green. To learn more and see additional photos of the Spirit of America Sonic I, simply click on the image below to visit the RM Sotheby’s website.
Finally, 5 years later, in 1975, the Spirit of America Sonic I arrived at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum. This museum now wishes to part with this impressive supersonic machine through the auction organized by RM Sotheby’s on February 27 and 28 in Miami.
The Editorial Team
Photos: RM Sotheby’s
