Pioneer Auto Museum and Antique Town, Murdo, South Dakota

Special Interest Cars

Reading edition

To classify as a special interest car it should be distinguished either by unusual body style, an engineering innovation or some other marked difference from the routine production of its day. A few of the special interest cars to be found in the PIONEER AUTO MUSEUM are shown here.

Illustration from Pioneer Auto Museum and Antique Town, Murdo, South Dakota

ROONEY RACER

The Mickey Rooney Racer was built especially for use in the movie “The Big Wheel.” It is powered by a motorcycle engine mounted in the rear. The car, bought in California, traveled cross country in its own tailor-made car top carrier.

1957 Thunderbird

The two-seater Thunderbird was built between 1955-1957. The one on display at the MUSEUM has an engine with 312 cubic inch displacement. The porthole top is detachable, secured by five clamps and a convertible top was optional. This car is driven regularly by John Geisler, and may be parked in front of the MUSEUM.

Kaiser Darrin Roadster DKF-16

This true roadster manufactured by Willys Motors, Inc., boasts side curtains, hidden top, plexiglass wind wings, and sold for $3,668.00. The fibreglass body features doors that slide into front fender wells and an F head Willys engine. Of the 435 assembly line cars built only 226 are known to still exist. If you miss the car in the exhibit it is probably parked in front as it is driven regularly by Betty Geisler.