The Forgotten American Sports Car That Left Corvettes in the Dust

In the late 1950s, a revolutionary American sports car emerged, leaving factory Corvettes and other notable racing cars in its wake. 8 seconds, a full second faster than the iconic Shelby Cobra that would follow in its footsteps. With its powerful American V8 engine and lightweight fiberglass body, the Devin SS was a force to be reckoned with on the racing circuit.

The Devin SS was the result of a collaboration between Bill Devin and Irish builders Noel Hillis and Malcom MacGregor, who designed a ground-up chassis with a 92-inch wheelbase and independent suspension at all four corners. Devin added his own touch with a fiberglass body and a range of engine options, including a 220-horsepower Carter carbureted engine and a 290-horsepower Rochester fuel-injected engine.

The resulting car was a true racing machine, barely street-legal and capable of taking on the best that Europe had to offer.

Despite its impressive performance and innovative design, the Devin SS was ultimately a commercial failure, with production ending after just two model years due to financial difficulties. Today, the Devin SS is a rare and highly sought-after collector's item, with estimates suggesting that only 15-30 genuine examples exist.

Its legacy, however, lives on as a testament to the innovative spirit of Bill Devin and the golden age of American sports car racing.

The story of the Devin SS serves as a reminder that even the most talented and visionary designers can fall victim to circumstance and bad luck. Bill Devin's contributions to the world of sports car racing may have been overlooked by history, but his cars continue to inspire and awe enthusiasts to this day.

As a pioneer in the field of American sports car design, Devin's legacy is one that deserves to be celebrated and recognized.