Benjamin’s replica was built using the same materials and techniques as the original. It is powered by a 550 h.p. Pratt & Whitney Wasp Junior, has an empty weight of 2,150 lb and a gross weight of 3,100 lb with full fuel load of 104 US gal. The wing span is 25ft and the maximum fuselage diameter is 5ft 1in.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Gee Bee Model Z/R Super Sportster - СШАUSA - 1931

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Gee Bee Model Z/R Super Sportster - СШАUSA - 1931

Owner/builder Delmar Benjamin displays the portly replica Gee Bee in the vicinity of Watsonville in May this year.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Gee Bee Model Z/R Super Sportster - СШАUSA - 1931

Taxying the Gee Bee must be a nightmare from the pilot’s viewpoint.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Gee Bee Model Z/R Super Sportster - СШАUSA - 1931

40-year-old Delmar R. Benjamin stands proudly in front of his creation. The replica Gee Bee made its first flight on December 23, 1991 with Benjamin at the controls.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Gee Bee Model Z/R Super Sportster - СШАUSA - 1931

Delmar Benjamin performs his party trick and flies knife-edge in formation with the camera aircraft.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Gee Bee Model Z/R Super Sportster - СШАUSA - 1931

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Gee Bee Model Z/R Super Sportster - СШАUSA - 1931