Cunningham [2] (United States)

B.S. Cunningham Co. was an American automobile manufacturer based in West Palm Beach, Florida, that operated from 1951 to 1956. Founded by racing enthusiast Briggs Cunningham, the company initially focused on producing racing cars but also made significant contributions to the sports car segment in the post-World War II era. To qualify for participation in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, Cunningham needed to produce a minimum of 25 street cars, which posed a challenge for the small team of approximately 35 employees.

The first model produced by the company was the C-1, a dual-purpose vehicle designed for both street and racing use. It featured a Cadillac V8 engine paired with a three-speed transmission, a wheelbase of 105 inches (2665 mm), and a robust frame that utilized Ford-based front suspension and a De Dion rear suspension system. The C-1 served as a prototype for the subsequent C-2R race cars, which were equipped with Chrysler Hemi V8 engines while maintaining similar design elements.

Following the C-1, the company introduced the C-3, which was intended solely for street use. The initial C-3 prototype was crafted in Florida and resembled the C-2 with a fixed hardtop, but due to high production costs, it remained a one-off model. The production versions of the C-3 featured a longer wheelbase of 107 inches (2715 mm) and were styled by the Italian coachbuilder Vignale, resembling larger iterations of contemporary Ferrari designs. The C-3 was powered by a standard 225-horsepower Chrysler Hemi engine, with options for a full-race 310-horsepower variant, and was available with either an automatic or a three-speed manual transmission. Weighing approximately 3,500 pounds (1591 kg), the C-3 was the most expensive American car of its time, priced at $10,000, with only 26 chassis produced.

When B.S. Cunningham Co. ceased operations, several chassis remained at Vignale awaiting bodywork. These unfinished chassis were later sold to various owners, who completed them in a range of styles, further contributing to the brand's legacy in the automotive world.