Kirkham-Williams Racer

A 1927 private seaplane venture by engine manufacturer Kirkham and then-Navy Lt Al Williams, with support by Packard Motors, for the Schneider Trophy Race prize of $100,000. All-wood construction, powered by two 625hp Packard V-1500s mounted in a common crankcase to form an impressive four-bank, 24-cylinder, X-shape motor — hence the model designation. Originally on twin pontoons, money ran out during the testing stage and the plane never made it to the starting gate at Venice, Italy. It was converted to wheels, however, and later set an unofficial world speed record of 322.6 mph.