The Legacy of Ben F. Gregory and His Roadster

The Gregory Sports Roadster stands as a testament to the innovative spirit of Ben F. Gregory, a Kansas City-based engineer, aviator, and inventor. Born in 1889, Gregory’s diverse pursuits ranged from early aviation to pioneering front-wheel-drive automobiles. His passion for engineering led him to design and build a unique sports car in the early 1950s, known today as the Gregory Sports Roadster.

A Visionary’s Journey

Gregory’s fascination with front-wheel-drive technology began in the 1920s. Between 1920 and 1922, he built approximately ten front-wheel-drive vehicles, a remarkable feat considering the era’s technological limitations. Despite his efforts, financial constraints halted mass production, leading Gregory to temporarily step away from the automotive industry. After World War II, his passion reignited, culminating in the creation of the Gregory Sports Roadster around 1954.

Innovative Engineering

The Gregory Sports Roadster was a front-wheel-drive vehicle powered by a Porsche 356 engine. This air-cooled, 1.6-liter flat-four engine produced approximately 75 horsepower, enabling the car to reach speeds up to 90 mph. The engine’s placement at the front, coupled with a four-speed manual transmission, showcased Gregory’s unconventional approach to automotive design.

Design and Performance

The roadster featured a tubular frame and a hand-formed body, reflecting Gregory’s commitment to craftsmanship. Weighing around 1,925 pounds, the car’s lightweight construction contributed to its impressive performance. Contemporary reports suggested that with its 70-horsepower engine, the roadster could achieve speeds between 95 and 100 mph.

Legacy and Preservation

Despite its innovative design, the Gregory Sports Roadster never entered mass production. Gregory used this singular vehicle for personal transportation, reportedly accumulating over 300,000 miles until his passing in 1974.

Today, the roadster is preserved at the Lane Motor Museum in Nashville, Tennessee, serving as a testament to Gregory’s engineering prowess and visionary approach to automotive design.

The Gregory Sports Roadster remains a unique chapter in automotive history, embodying the spirit of innovation and the pursuit of engineering excellence.