We’ve heard the expression “fly around the track”, but this is ridiculous.
When it comes to dangerous motorsport disciplines, sprint car racing is in a league of its own. Why? Because some of these loud, exciting and extremely fast vehicles weigh approximately 640 kg (1400 pounds) and develop between 700 and 1100hp – depending on the class they’re in.
Austin Williams’ vehicle is a top-tier 410 non-wing variant, which means it’s animated by a 410ci (6.7-litre), naturally aspirated American V8, capable of revving up to 9000rpm, while boasting the full-fat 1100hp figure.
That translates into a power to weight ratio that greatly exceeds that of a Formula 1 car, and its short-wheel-base requires a compact track to race on (usually left-biased). That’s why most of the vehicles have larger diameter wheels on the right.
Due to their unbalanced nature and power delivery, these automobiles are hard to control on dirt surfaces, requiring constant throttle adjustment and finesse (especially the non-winged versions which lack popper aerodynamic downforce). Add a mind-boggling speed into the mix, sometimes in excess of 160mph (257km/h), and you’ve got the recipe for disaster – as Austin Williams demonstrated.
During a qualifying run on Saturday at Perris Auto Speedway in California, Williams attempted to drift around a corner when his car started to tilt and flip over.
But the occurrence wasn’t your regular flip, as the car bounced off the ground, launching into the air, straight over the 22-foot catch fence. According to Perris Auto Speedway’s Facebook page, this incredible “achievement” was the first ever in the track’s 21-year history.
Fortunately, the driver escaped unharmed, albeit he was little sore after the accident.
H/T to CBS Sports