Robert R. Burman, an American racing driver born in 1884, was a prominent figure in the early 20th-century motorsport landscape. Known as "Wild Bob" or "The Speed King of the World," his career was marked by intense competition in major races, a relentless drive for victory, and an unexpected, yet significant, contribution to automotive engineering. Burman's journey through the world of open-wheel racing saw him compete in some of the most challenging
events of his era, driving a variety of cars and leaving an indelible mark on the sport.
Competing on the Grand Stage
Burman's competitive spirit led him to participate in 41 AAA races between 1909 and 1915, securing six victories, three of which were with Peugeot. His early career saw him driving Buicks in 1909 and 1910, often alongside teammates Louis and Arthur Chevrolet. As his career progressed, he drove a diverse range of vehicles, including Benz, Marmon, Cutting, Ketton, and Wisconsin cars from mid-1911 to mid-1914. This adaptability across different manufacturers highlighted his skill and versatility as a driver.
He was a regular participant in the Grand Prix of the United States, competing four times, including the inaugural edition in 1908. In 1910, he achieved a notable third-place finish in the Grand Prix while driving a Marquette-Buick. The Indianapolis 500, one of America's most iconic races, also featured Burman five times, from its first edition in 1911 to 1915. His best finish at Indianapolis was a sixth place in 1915, driving the Peugeot L56, a car he would pilot from mid-1914 until his final, fatal race in 1916. His competitive drive was particularly evident in 1912, a year in which he won 43 out of 53 races he entered, finishing second eight times, predominantly on hard-surface tracks.
Unintended Contributions to Engineering
Beyond his driving achievements, Burman played an indirect but crucial role in the advancement of American automotive engineering. In 1915, he inadvertently provided an opportunity for engine builder Harry Arminius Miller and his employee Fred Offenhauser to study the secrets of the Peugeot L76 engine. This engine had been victorious at the Indianapolis 500, and its advanced design was highly sought after. By allowing Miller and Offenhauser access to the L76, Burman facilitated their understanding of its innovative mechanics.
This exposure proved transformative for Miller and Offenhauser. The knowledge gained from studying the Peugeot L76 engine significantly influenced their own designs. Consequently, Miller engines went on to dominate American racing for much of the 1920s, becoming a benchmark for performance and reliability. Thus, Burman's competitive choices and the cars he drove had a lasting impact, not just on the race results of his era, but also on the trajectory of American racing engine development for years to come.
