Historic 1930 Austin 7 Wood Boat Tail Race Car Joins DFW Car & Toy Museum Collection

The DFW Car & Toy Museum in North Fort Worth has recently expanded its impressive collection with the addition of a 1930 Austin 7 Wood Boat Tail Race Car. This vehicle is not just a car; it's a piece of automotive racing history, offering a glimpse into the early days of motorsport. The Austin 7, with its custom wood and aluminum boattail speedster bodywork, stands as a testament to the elegant design and engineering ingenuity of the 1930s.

Powered by a 750cc inline-four engine that produces around 15 horsepower, the Austin 7 was a marvel of its time. Its design focused on lightweight performance, featuring a 75-inch wheelbase and a unique suspension system that included transverse leaf springs at the front and quarter-elliptic longitudinal units at the rear. These specifications contributed to the car's exceptional handling, making it a standout in early racing circuits.

The car's period-correct details, such as an eight-volt electrical system, plexiglass windscreen, and a black-upholstered bench seat, further highlight its historical significance. The interior boasts a three-spoke steering wheel and a dash panel equipped with a passenger-side grab handle, switchgear, and a combination gauge for monitoring battery charge and coolant temperature. These features not only served functional purposes but also added to the vehicle's aesthetic appeal.

The addition of the Austin 7 to the Ron Sturgeon Collection at the DFW Car & Toy Museum provides visitors with a unique opportunity to explore an important chapter in automotive history. The museum, which houses over 200 cars, offers free admission and a dog-friendly environment, making it an accessible destination for enthusiasts and families alike. This acquisition underscores the museum's commitment to preserving and showcasing the evolution of automotive design and technology.

For automotive enthusiasts, history buffs, and the general public, the Austin 7 represents more than just a vintage car; it symbolizes the innovation and passion that drove the early automotive industry. Its presence in the museum's collection serves as a reminder of how far automotive engineering has come and the timeless appeal of classic design.