Spirit of America
Throughout history, human beings have sought to travel faster, farther and higher than ever before. The Spirit of America, one of the fastest land vehicles in the world, is proof of that motivation.
Designed by Craig Breedlove and built in 1963, the Spirit of America broke two world land speed records before being donated to the Museum in 1965. On two separate occasions, Craig Breedlove piloted the Spirit of America to record-breaking speeds, traveling faster than any other person on the planet! His fastest speed clocked in at 539.89 mph. Competitors have broken his record three times since then, with the current record, set in 1997, standing at 763 mph.
Frequently mistaken for an airplane, the Spirit of America features many similar characteristics. Aviation-inspired features, including an aerodynamic shape, wings and a jet engine, all combined to make the Spirit drive faster.
Technical Facts
Length: 38'6"
Height: 6'
Width: 11'4"
Wheel Base: 19'1"
Engine: J47-GE-15 turbojet with 5,200 lbs of thrust
Fastest Speed: 539.89 mph
- Museum Hours
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- Daily from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Open daily except Thanksgiving and Christmas
- Museum Location
- Getting Here
Find It on the Map
