Maserati 26C

Tipo 26C

Also known as the 8C-1100. In order to compete against the popular French cycle cars, the elektron alloy engine block of the Tipo 26 was linered down with nickel steel cylinder liners to a displacement of 1.1 litres while keeping to the original crankshaft stroke. A single Weber carburettor was fitted on the supercharger. The engine thus produced 95 to 105 bhp at 5,000 to 6,000 rpm, but the lack of torque required frequent use of the 4-speed gearbox.

The 26C was also noted for heavy steering compared to its French competitors. Dry weight of the racer was 800 kg, while the sports version - the 26C MM - with road car trim and Bosch electrics weighed 880 kg. Derived from a larger car, the Maserati Tipo 26C was 150 kg heavier than the French Amilcar and about 250 kg more than the Salmson cyclecars. Top speed was 170 to 185 kph (105 to 115 mph). Giuseppe Tuffanelli won his class in the 1931 Mille Miglia. Four cars were made.

Technical data

0-60 mph
Bodyworkaluminium-bodied two-seater racing or sports car
Bore and stroke51x66 mm
Brakesdrum brakes, mechanical
Brakes front
Brakes rear
Chassisladder frame, with two longitudinal steel girders and cross members
Compression ratio5.5:1
Cooling systemcentrifugal pump
Displacements (unitary)
Dry weight1,763 lbs (800 kg) - sport version 1,940 lbs (880 kg)
Enginein-line 8
Engine weight
First race
Front Tyres
Front suspensionleaf springs and friction dampers
Front track
Fuel & lubricant
Fuel feedtwo Roots superchargers, a single Weber ASS carburettor mounted ahead of the superchargers
Fuel tank17.60 Imp. gall.( 80 litres)
Gear ratios
Height51.18 in. (1,300 mm)
Ignitionsingle-plug, Scintilla magneto
Kerb weight
Length145.66 in. (3,700 mm)
Length-Width-Height
Lubricationdual oil pumps (pressure and scavenge)
Maximum power95-105 bhp at 5,500-6,000 rpm
Maximum torque
ModelTipo 26C
One mile
Production dates1929-1930
Production start1929
Quarter mile
Rear Tyres
Rear suspensionleaf springs and friction dampers
Rear track
Reduction
Steeringworm gear
Timing geartwo valves per cylinder set in a 90°V, twin overhead camshafts
Top speed105-115 mph (170-185 km/h)
Total displacement1,078.6 cc
Transmission4-speed + reverse
Tyresfront 4.75x18; rear 5.00x18; Dunlop
Weight distribution
Wheelbase101.57 in. (2,580 mm)
Wheelswire wheels, front 3.00x18, rear 3.25x18
Width59.05 in. (1,500 mm)