1927 Rolls-Royce Aerocar 20hp

Posted by HoneyRush@reddit | WeirdWheels | View on Reddit | 6 comments

Behold the 1927 Rolls-Royce Aerocar 20hp, a truly unique specimen in automotive history. This extraordinary machine embarked on its transatlantic journey to the USA in 1927 as a rolling chassis, setting the stage for its future transformation.

In 1933, the lightweight and streamlined body was ingeniously fitted for Alan Bemis, who utilised this marvel to tow his glider into the sky. The car's primary purpose was to launch aircraft into the air, a testament to its remarkable engineering.

Adorned with an aluminium body and Plexiglas (Perspex) rear windows—materials that were quite avant-garde in the 1930s—the Aerocar was ahead of its time. The dashboard was crafted from cast aluminium, adding a touch of sophistication to its interior.

The vehicle boasted a distinctive fin shape at the rear, complete with a tow hook, while the roof featured Perspex panels, enhancing its aerodynamic profile.

Bemis, ever the enthusiast, constructed a racetrack around his estate, where he hosted the 1934 Wayland GP and various other events, further cementing the Aerocar's place in motoring lore.

The car's odyssey continued as it departed the United States in the 1950s for Rhodesia. Following Rhodesia's Independence, the Aerocar found a new home in Cape Town, South Africa, before ultimately returning to England in 1994.

The 1927 Rolls-Royce Aerocar 20hp is a testament to innovation, ingenuity, and the enduring spirit of automotive excellence.