Preserving the memories of Otie's Automotive and Akron drag racing history.
Otie's Automotive was opened in 1955 By Otis Smith and closed the doors in the late 80's.
Otie's was a premier speed shop in their day as a speed equipment dealer and machine shop. They were known nation wide for their racing exploits and their cars were featured in many magazines in the 50's and 60's. Otie, as President of the Akron Cam Jammers Car Club, was responsible for the first organized drag strip east of the Mississippi river at the Akron Airport in 1952. Otie raced in over 100 NHRA national events and held many national records between 1955 to 1965. Otie's son, Bill Smith, started racing in 1962 at the age of 16. Bill was also a national record holder and national event winner.
We are currently constructing a replica of Bill's first car, the B/A Otie's Automotive Fiat Topolino that was raced by Bill Smith in 1962 and 63. The original body has been recently found and will be built as a rolling display car and preserved.
Sales proceeds go the construction of both cars and support equipment. The replica car is being built to get the Otie's Automotive name back on the track at Nostalgia racing events across the country, making full quarter mile exhibition passes.
We're also looking for any other Otie's Automotive cars, parts and memorabilia.
Hats, T-Shirts, Decals and Nostalgic Racing Photographs.
More to come
