Other Zink Sports Racing Cars

The ZINK Z-8

Reference: www..conceptcarz.com/vehicle/z11829/zink-z5.aspx

The Z-8 was introduced in 1968, keeping with the Zink naming scheme, and was another attempt at creating a sports-racer. The Formula cars were creating adequate income and another attempt at creating a competitive sports racer seemed appropriate. The Z8 used a Volkswagen Type 3 engine with a modified fuel injection system. A Volkswagen gearbox and brakes were also used. Bill Scott drove the prototype racer at the 1968 Sebring race but was forced to retire prematurely due to clutch problems. In total, only one full example was ever created. A spare chassis was create and later finished with a Corvair engine.

The Z 8 was and is owned and raced by Bob Houston. I had the pleasure of talking with Mr. Houston regarding the car and he indicated that he had campaigned the car and raced the car. The Heirseman’s that is on the side of the car was one of the early VW dealers in the US and the Z8 was built originally for the car dealer. VW at the time was against their cars or parts being used for the project but relented. The car placed well at Daytona and Sebring much to everyones surprise. Mr. Houston raced the car himself and after he finished racing sold the car. He subsequently bought the car back but it was in terrible shape and disassembled. The frame was literally left in the weeds to rot. He was able to restore the car but the body took quite a bit of time to restore. In discussions with Mr. Houston it appears Ed used the Z4 body but widened it by two inches to accommodate the wider frame.

Some further note from Mr. Houston that was to my surprise was that Ed Zink designated all the Zink cars with a “Z” although the MK I & MK II cars I have only ever noted as just Mk I or MK II. In researching this the letter to Auto Union by Ed he referenced the cars my MK I and MK II and referenced John Gordon purchasing a MK III. At some point the Z designator came into play probably with the MK III turning into the Z4.

Facebook page: www.facebook.com/pg/imamotorwerke/photos/?tab=album&album_id=10150569838438288

The sister car this is owned by Bill Flemming and is awaiting restoration.

Some of the later Zink Sports racing cars are on the following page www.sports.racer.net. Follow the vintage tab on the left bottom of the home page and scroll down and you will find Zink. Click on the link.