This is the first of two Indianapolis front motor models that I am building. Both cars were driven by Jim Rathmann, who battled closely with Roger Ward and came in second in 1959 (Roger Ward won in 1959) and Jim won in 1960 (Roger Ward placed second in 1960). Many say that the race in 1960 will be remembered as one of the best of all time with these two leaders trading places between first and second fifteen times after their third and final pit stop.
Some photos of the actual car
Here is my attempt using a resin body kit made by Gianluca Ostorero; a world renowned scale model maker/builder located in Italy. A very nice chap, very helpful and easy to work with for anybody interested.
I have already painted the inserts, driver seat and drivers body in this photo.
I completed the chassis with a BWA Scan prior to the recent release of the rules… it will be switched with a BWA 050 motor. I temporarily hot glued the motor in place for testing purposes and to be able to easily remove it. The chassis is made of brass.
Here is the completed car.
Here is a side view… The lighting is poor in this photo. Also, the front windscreen is not yet installed.
My second car will be the 1959 WATSON Roadster SIMONIZ Special #16 that placed second in the 1959 Indianapolis 500.
Photo of the driver – Jim Rathmann
My 1959 model should be completed with a scratch built chassis and slim 050 BWA motor some time next week. Stay tuned.
Thanks for looking.