HESTON-NAPIER RACER
- Designed, at Napier's instigation, in 1938 for an attempt on the World
Speed Record for aircraft, the Heston Napier Racer was of wooden construction
and powered by a 2,000 hp Sabre engine. Remarkably, work on prototype
(G-AFOK) proceeded through first nine months of war, leading to first
flight on June 12, 1940. However, with engine overheating, the flight
was curtailed to a few minutes, and aircraft stalled just before touchdown,
suffering irreparable damage. Construction of second Racer (G-AFOL) meanwhile
abandoned.
Estimated max speed, 480 mph (772 kmlh). Gross weight, 7,200 Ib (3,266
kg). Span, 32ft 0'/2 in (9.77 m). Length, 24 ft 7>/4 in (7.49 m). Wing
area, 167.6 sq ft (15.6 m2).
