Emil Albert Diedt (born Emil Albert Didt, March 17, 1897 – December 8, 1980) was an American race car builder. He specialized in body-building and metalwork, and his chassis won the Indianapolis 500 in 1947 and 1948 with Mauri Rose, and in 1949 with Bill Holland. Diedt's cars ran with Offenhauser engines, and the three victories were the only major American open-wheel racing (AAA) wins for him.
The 1947 and 1948 winning car, called "Blue Crown Special", had the particularity of being front-wheel driven. Diedt's cars competed in the FIA World Championship from 1950 to 1952, as the Indianapolis 500 was part of the championship during those years. The last participation in the Indianapolis 500 for a Diedt chassis was in 1952, and their last qualifying attempt was in 1953.
Personal life
Born Emil Albert Didt, Diedt emigrated to the U.S. as a 16-year old, accompanying his 19-year old brother. Both had been working as sailors. Diedt obtained U.S. citizenship after the First World War.
Select Indianapolis 500 results
Season Driver Grid Classification Points Note Race Report 1950 Tony Bettenhausen 8 Ret Wheel Bearing Report 1950 Bill Holland 10 2 6 Report 1950 Mauri Rose 3 3 4 Report 1951 Mack Hellings 23 Ret Engine Report 1951 Mauri Rose 5 Ret Accident Report 1951 Duane Carter 4 8 Report 1951 Tony Bettenhausen 9 Ret Spun Off Report 1952 Tony Bettenhausen 30 Ret Oil Pressure Report
References