Some people believe that the Corvette was America’s first post-war sports car, but the title actually belongs to a lesser-known and very small machine. The Crosley Hot Shot predated the Corvette by a few years and, believe it or not, enjoyed some racing success. This particular Crosley is the Super Sport model, which added a few luxury features, like doors. It had been stashed away for over 30 years but was recently pulled out and brought back to life. The owner has now listed it on Facebook Marketplace for $6,500. Thanks go to Barn Finds reader TJ for the tip!
That 44 cubic inch four-banger put out a measly 26 horsepower when new. That may not sound like much, and it isn’t, but the overhead cam design actually made it pretty potent for its size. The engine was used in a lot of small-bore race cars back in the day. The Hot Shot’s main claim to fame came when one won the Index of Performance at the 1950 running of the Six Hours of Sebring. Don’t be mistaken, though, these cars are not hot rods. They are slow, but luckily there isn’t much to move around here. They tip the scales at just over a thousand pounds.
When I said there isn’t much to move around, I wasn’t kidding. And this is the luxury version. The Super Sport package added doors, a folding top, and a nicer interior. Just imagine what a base Hot Shot must be like. The simplicity is a huge selling point here, though. Sure, it would be nice to have a center console, air conditioning, or even some visors, but on an old car that just adds more things to repair or replace. Last time I checked, these cars did have decent support with a club and some parts availability.
It may look goofy, but I’ve secretly wanted one of these since I first learned about them years ago. The seller has gotten this one running, but I would still plan on replacing all the fluids, belts, hoses, and tune-up parts. Before that, the brakes need to be addressed. These actually had four-wheel disc brakes, which was very rare at the time. The calipers and master cylinder will probably need to be rebuilt, and don’t forget new hoses. No sense in going if you can’t stop. After mounting a set of new tires, I would find some twisty country roads and have some fun.
Do you think this looks like a lot of smiles per dollar or just a waste of money?
one of the last top gear challenges with hammond may and clarkson had may driving one of these….it did not go well
I’ve always been intrigued by all Crosley cars. A couple years ago I pulled up to a 2 door wagon at 430 in the morning while headed to work. Cool to see, but they’re a bit small. These especially, I would imagine. I’m certain the Hot Shot would be a blast to drive but I’d definitely stick with some seldom traveled back roads just to be on the safe side. I laughed at how Jesse mentioned the “luxury ” edition with luxurious add ons like…. Doors!!! And a top??? Wow. I’d really love to take one of these for a spin. Thank you for the well researched write up!! I learned a bit more about these Crosleys cars.
I love it! If driving something like this doesn’t bring about a smile, might want to check your BP. Several cars in history have that distinction. The “Hot Shot” was one of them. After the war, car makers were quick to try and capitalize on what soldiers saw overseas. These, the King Midget, the Willys Jeepster and others, all trying to catch the “roadster” interest, with limited results. What these US car makers didn’t realize, is returning G.I.s had blood and guts on their minds, and flame throwing V8 monsters down the open road, not little puddle jumpers struggling along.
Today? Well, naturally, one would be foolish to try and mingle with todays traffic in this. I could, however, definitely see places that would accommodate this, a gated community, or VERY rural areas, big smile,,,crisis? What crisis? Great find.
As for learning, I learned the basics of car restorations on a body off frame ’49 Crosley at the ripe old age of 13. Simple, straight forward car to start on. Got help from an owner of a ’51 sedan that had a 10,000 rpm engine that put out over 3 times the hp over stock. Wasn’t ready for that yet but it was good to know how. This car could be a lot of fun.
Now THAT is something I’d love to see and hear run Bobhess. I’ve heard of these little Crosley 4 cylinders being able to put out more power than stock, but 10000 rpm has got to be something else, especially from a seat-of-the-pants feel from behind the wheel.
The car I referenced blew my mind when he gave me a ride in it. Smooth running and fast. Couldn’t use that hp in corners as the cars were very narrow. Found that out the hard way by almost tipping mine over.
Another thought like you mentioned on the other Crosley is getting 10000 rpms out if an engine from the 40’s. Even if you had to gp easy on the curves winding that out on a straight must’ve been a blast.
I’ve never seen one of these, but any car that appears like it could fit in your back pocket is intriguing to me. I once owned an MG Midget and this looks like it could make that MG look like a Cadillac. I wonder what its top speed is? If it could climb a hill better than an old VW Bug, I’m in!
Mine topped out at 65.
For better or worse, Crosley was the first company to use automotive disc brakes, in 1949! But I believe that by ’52 the disc brakes had been replaced with much better drums all around. The early cars used an aluminum caliper that corroded in salty climes.
Would love to have this as my lake house errand runner…
I had a 1946 Crosley pickup in high school. Top end was some over 70. However, I beat a 39 Oldsmobile with it. If you got stuck on a back road, you could slide the rear end back by yourself and get going again. I used it to push start my Dad’s 46 Ford when the battery went down.
Always wanted a Hot Shot and finally acquired one. Ours is a ’49 and last year won “Best of Show” against 65 cars, 21 of which were Duesenbergs! Fun to drive? Oh yeah! And they bring smiles to everyone including the driver! And yes 10,000RPM? No problem-our 1948 Crosley engine, 1962 hull 48 class hydro runs on methanol and turns 9,000RPM regularly. Crosley nailed it with this gear-driven overhead-cam, 5 main bearing, integral head and block casting mighty little engine. It kinda made the rounds like the Buick 215!
Sold
Fun cars and under appreciated. Just finished restoring a frame off 1948 CC wagon in Bamboo yellow soon to go on the market. Parts available from Service Motor parts, inexpensive, and incredibly simple to service and work on. Terrific cars to own to get into the classic market without “breaking the bank” and unique, not everyone having one. Best to seller.