A guide to the world’s most incredible automotive stunts
If you’re a thrill-seeker looking to get your adrenaline pumping, you may already be familiar with some of the world’s most incredible automotive stunts. From high-speed chases to death-defying leaps, these stunts not only showcase the power of modern vehicles but also the incredible skills and daring of the drivers behind the wheel. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at some of the most jaw-dropping automotive stunts around the globe, from the iconic to the lesser-known. Buckle up and get ready for a wild ride as we dive into the world of extreme automotive feats.
The Original Stuntman: Evel Knievel
When it comes to automotive stunts, one name immediately comes to mind – Evel Knievel. The legendary daredevil performed dozens of incredible stunts throughout his career, earning him a spot in the Guinness Book of World Records for “most broken bones in a lifetime” with a total of 433. From his iconic jump over the Snake River Canyon to his successful leap over 14 Greyhound buses, Evel Knievel paved the way for future generations of stunt performers.
The Death-Defying “Wall of Death”
Also known as the “Motordrome,” the “Wall of Death” is a round track with vertical wooden walls, where riders perform high-speed stunts on motorcycles or cars. This heart-thumping stunt originated in the early 1900s and has since evolved into a popular attraction at fairs and carnivals around the world. The daring riders can reach speeds of up to 60 mph, defying gravity as they race around the walls inches from the ground.
Cannonball Run: Cross-Country Record-Breaking Stunt
Inspired by the 1970s comedy movie of the same name, the “Cannonball Run” is a cross-country speed record-breaking stunt that has captured the hearts of car enthusiasts everywhere. Originating in the 1970s, this illegal race takes participants from New York to Los Angeles, covering over 2,800 miles in the shortest amount of time possible. The current record is held by Ed Bolian, who completed the race in 28 hours and 50 minutes.
The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift
The popular movie franchise, “The Fast and the Furious,” has helped popularize the daring and impressive driving technique known as “drifting.” Originating in Japan, drifting requires drivers to intentionally oversteer, causing their vehicles to lose traction and slide around tight corners. This skill takes years to perfect and has since evolved into a professional motorsport, attracting audiences all over the world.
Backflip Madness: First Truck Double Backflip
In 2009, professional monster truck driver, Cam McQueen, achieved the impossible – the first successful double backflip in a monster truck. This mind-boggling stunt wowed audiences and put McQueen on the map as a pioneer in the world of automotive stunts. Since then, the double backflip has become a popular stunt in the monster truck community, with more and more drivers attempting this dangerous feat.
Sky Stunts: Jet-Powered Thrills
Not all automotive stunts take place on the ground – some take to the skies. Jet-powered vehicles have been used for stunts since the 1960s, with the first successful jet-powered car jump credited to “Human Fly” Ken Carter in 1972. Since then, jet-powered vehicles have been used for even more daring feats, including jumping over long distances and setting new world record speeds.
The Future of Automotive Stunts
As technology advances, so do the possibilities for incredible automotive stunts. In 2016, the first successful death-defying loop-the-loop in a car was completed by stunt driver Terry Grant. And in 2021, jet suit pilot Vince Reffet made headlines with his mind-blowing stunt of flying over the open doors of a moving A380 plane. With new innovations and fearless performers, the world of automotive stunts is sure to continue pushing the limits of what’s possible.
From Evel Knievel’s iconic jumps to futuristic jet suit stunts, the world of automotive stunts is full of record-breaking and jaw-dropping feats. These incredible performances continue to captivate audiences and inspire future generations of daredevils. So the next time you see a car flying through the air or drifting around a corner, remember that behind every impressive stunt is a skilled driver and an unwavering sense of fearlessness.
