Crosley Hot Shot (1949)Richardvining, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Crosley Hot Shot

1949 — USA

Post-War (1946-1959)Sports CarRoadsterAmericanConvertibleMille Miglia EligibleBarn Find CandidatesOpen-Top Driving
Engine724 cc I4 OHC
Power26 hp
Torque40 lb-ft
Transmission3-speed manual
DrivetrainRWD
Body StyleRoadster
Weight1,200 lbs
0–60 mph21.0 sec
Top Speed85 mph
Production2,498 units
Original MSRP$952
BrakesDisc / Disc
SuspensionIndependent, coil springs / Independent, coil springs

Crosley Hot Shot

Powel Crosley Jr.'s Hot Shot pioneered the lightweight sports car concept in America, beating British roadsters to market. Revolutionary for 1949, it featured four-wheel disc brakes a decade before they became common, overhead cam engine, and independent suspension at all four corners. Though underpowered by American standards, the Hot Shot's 1200-pound curb weight enabled competitive performance, including victories at Sebring and other sports car races.

$25,000 – $55,000

Verify disc brakes are original Goodyear-Hawley units. Check for rust in steel body panels. COBRA engine parts scarce but reproduction parts available.

First American production car with disc brakes. Featured advanced COBRA (Copper BRAzed) overhead cam engine. Raced successfully at Sebring in 1950-1951.