Timbs was influenced by the Auto Union Type C and Mercedes-Benz W25 Avus Streamlined GP racers from the 1930s. His shape is a close approximation to these cars, the GP cars of their day. However, the Norman Timbs Special was built for the road, and not the track.
The Special uses a 1948 Buick straight 8 engine, with dual 'Compound' carburetors and dual exhausts, to propel the 2,200 lb. car to 120 mph. The engine resides in a tube chassis, behind the driver. The chassis is built from four-inch tubes, which kick up over the rear axle. The smooth shape is long, low and sports an underbelly pan. A one-piece rear panel opens to reveal the entire rear end of the chassis.
The car was discovered in the California desert pretty much intact in 2002. In 2010, the car made its restoration debut at the 2010 Amelia Island Concours where it won 'The RM Auctions Trophy For the Best Open Car.'
