This is probably not what you envision when you think of a 1930s boat tail speedster, but that is what it is – sort of. See, in the 1930s there was a a Soap Box Derby Race held every 4th of July in Butte, Montana. It was a big deal and they needed a tow vehicle to move the little racers back up the hill. Snell Automotive built this tiny tow vehicle and it looks like they were trying to make it look like a soap box racer! It’s been stored inside since built and is now being offered here on eBay with a $1,500 starting bid.
This is from a video showing it towing a soap box racer up Park Street in the middle of town all the way back in 1938! Soap Box racing used to be a big sport with lots of media coverage and as evidenced by the photo, huge spectator attendance. There are still a few races held across the country, but it’s nowhere as big as it once was. That’s a shame too because it looks like a lot of fun for everyone involved.
Most of this little boat tail is still there except for the grill hood and one fender. The Snell Automotive advertising is barely visible under the primer on the sides. The axles were narrowed and smaller wheels installed to make it look more miniature.
The cockpit is very basic. Notice the Snell hubcaps.
The view from the rear shows some imaginative if not skilled metal work. It’s a wonderful curiosity and a look at an interesting bit of history, but why would anyone purchase this? What car do you think the body might have come from? Beyond displaying this in a local museum, do you see any future for this?
Calling all schriners.
Some clown left his car hear.
Be warned some guys aren’t going to find this a laughing mater.
I think that this car should find its way into the local Butte Montana museum, as a reminder of the history of that area !
Not a vehicle you would find everywhere.
And it should be kept as near as possible “as found”
the Video and all the paraphenalia a living story !
An incredible bit of Americana!
Greetings All,
Clearly the body came from the scrap metal pile, possibly outside a heatingand ventilation contractor.
Interesting find. I wonder what the power train is from?
It would make a interesting parade vehicle.
AND Snell hub caps
It would be nice to see it restored back to its former glory and used brought out for parades and car shows. I think this is a very cool little car with a great history I hope it get saved.
not a lot of people know this: Red Bull sponsor soap box racing in the UK and Europe. There are few regulations and the courses/tracks are set out with corners and bumps. There are plenty of spills and I have to say that it is more entertaining that the current formual one races!