Mother of Muscle—1929 Chrysler Model 75 Roadster

A frenzy of uncorked Mini Coopers, followed by a gaggle of vintage MGs, Triumphs and other assorted vintage sports racers came flying by, but incongruously, about mid-pack was a 1929 Model 75 Chrysler Roadster holding its own around this short airport road course. I was at a vintage and historic race at the Naval and Marine Corps Air Station in Tustin, California, a number of years ago, watching in awe as this upright ancient machine strutted its stuff in battle with cars that could have been its great grandchildren.

Buster Keaton could have been driving it, with its anachronistic upright 1920s styling and its tall, skinny wire-spoked wheels. However, it was turning the course at a surprising pace. I assumed that it had been breathed upon for the event, but I was mistaken. It was instead, arguably the grandmother of all muscle cars.