Daniel Sexton Gurney (1931-2018) was a Southern California Hot-Rodder who became one of the most successful racing drivers in the history of motorsport, with wins in Saloon Car, Sports Car, NASCAR, Indy Car and Formula One.
Gurney raced for the Arciero Brothers, Luigi Chinetti's North American Racing Team, Ferrari, Brabham, BRM and Porsche before teaming up with Carroll Shelby to found All American Racers in 1964.
Gurney was always seeking out men of motorsport at the top of their game: he collaborated with Colin Chapman of Lotus, engine maestro Harry Weslake, and the ambitious cadre at Ford Motor Company, who were intent on taking on the world's best.
Gurney helped to pioneer the rear engine layout at the Indianapolis 500, spelling the end of Indy's Roadster Era in Champ Car racing, and AAR fielded the Gurney Eagle Formula One chassis for the first time in 1966.
1967 was a banner year for Gurney, winning the Belgian Grand Prix in the Eagle Mk1- the first Grand Prix win for an American constructor since 1921. He also won overall at the 24 Hours of Le Mans with his co-driver A.J. Foyt in the Ford GT 40 Mk IV.
Gurney retired as a driver in 1970, but continued to operate All American Racers for the rest of his life, famously partnering with Toyota in IMSA-GT and CART.
As a driver, Dan Gurney chalked up 63 victories over all motorsport categories, and All American Racers achieved 78 total wins as a constructor. His influence and contributions in the world of motor racing continue to inspire the next generation.
SUPPORT THE POD:
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hpheritage
SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS:
http://modelcitizendiecast.com
FIND US ON THE WEB:
https://www.horsepowerheritage.com
Instagram: @horsepowerheritage
Support the show
Subscribe to the Horsepower Heritage YouTube channel for more great cars and motorcycles! https://www.youtube.com/@horsepowerheritage8030