1987 A.J. Foyt Sets World Record with the Aerotech at Fort Stockton

Описание: On August 26, 1987, the development team tested the two completed cars on the Fort Stockton test track in the presence of FIA officials. Initial tests with the short-tail version of the car resulted in an average speed of 250.919 mph (403.815 km/h), falling just short of the closed-course speed record set by the Mercedes CIII-IV development prototype. As the team adjusted the car's aerodynamics, Foyt tested the second, long-tail car. The long-tail version proved to be even more capable than its short-tail sibling, allowing Foyt to reach a top speed of 275 mph (443 km/h) in the flying mile after some practice runs.[1]

Foyt set a new speed record with the long-tail version the next day, averaging 267.399 mph (430.337 km/h) after flying-mile runs in both directions of the track. Subsequent runs made with the now modified short-tail version resulted in a new closed-course speed record of 257.123 mph (413.799 km/h), beating Mercedes' record by a large margin.[1]

The speed records garnered considerable publicity for Oldsmobile, and helped boost sales. The Aerotechs made several appearances at autoshows across North America. A non-functional mockup with a makeshift interior also made appearances at various circuit races.