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Cessna 310 Being Converted To Race Car

Photo: Doug Kirchberg
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • Race car driver and police officer Jeff Bloch (Speedycop) is converting a 1956 Cessna 310 airplane into a unique race car called "Spirit of LeMons."
  • The project involves merging the airplane with a 1987 Toyota Van Wagon to compete in the 24 Hours of LeMons race, which is known for unconventional, low-budget vehicles.
  • Despite the race's sub-$500 cost limit, Bloch received a waiver for the airplane, which he acquired for $2,000 due to its unique design.
  • Bloch is prioritizing safety with features like a full roll cage and aims for the final design to resemble a taxiing aircraft, using parts of the original wings as fenders.
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The variety of final destinations for retired airplanes can be quite fascinating, ranging from scrap metal to incredible pieces of art. Now a police officer and race car driver, Jeff Bloch (aka Speedycop), who has become known for creating unique racing machines, has come up with a new idea for the use of a parked airplane that he believes is a first — turning it into a race car.

He is merging a 1956 Cessna 310 with a 1987 Toyota Van Wagon, a project he’s named Spirit of LeMons — a combination of Charles Lindberg’s legendary Spirit of St. Louis and the name of the race the vehicle will participate in, the 24 Hours of LeMons (not to be confused with the more famous 24 Hours of Le Mans).

Pia Bergqvist

Pia Bergqvist joined FLYING in December 2010. A passionate aviator, Pia started flying in 1999 and quickly obtained her single- and multi-engine commercial, instrument and instructor ratings. After a decade of working in general aviation, Pia has accumulated almost 3,000 hours of flight time in nearly 40 different types of aircraft.

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