Previously known as a Ford V8 Special, the Stuart Special No 77 was built in 1949 by John Jacobson and Neil Stuart, based on an American K8 design used on American short dirt tracks in the late 1930s. This type of car evolved into what is known as Sprintcars today. The car was built on a modified 1926 Essex chassis which incorporated a Ford Model T rear cross member and spring. The front spring is from a Ford V8.
When the car was originally built, 1932 Ford V8 front and rear axles incorporating mechanical brakes were used. These were later updated to front and rear axles including the hydraulic brakes of 1939 Ford V8s. This was done during Bill Harris’ ownership. At the same time the
