Ken Miles, the British sports car racing engineer and driver, had a net worth of $100,000 at the time of his death in 1966 (adjusted for inflation). While his net worth may seem relatively modest compared to modern standards, it is important to remember that Miles’ true wealth lies in his remarkable achievements and contributions to the world of motorsports.
His expertise as a driver and mechanical engineer, along with his numerous victories and lasting legacy, have solidified his place as a true racing legend.
Ken Miles’ impact on the automotive industry and his enduring reputation continue to inspire and captivate racing enthusiasts to this day.
Here’s the breakdown of his net worth:
| Name: | Ken Miles |
| Net Worth: | $100 Thousand |
| Monthly Income: | $45 Thousand |
| Annual Salary: | $1 Million |
| Source of Wealth: | Race car driver |
Learn more: Richest Race Car Drivers in the World
Table of Contents
Early Life and Career
Ken Miles was born in Sutton Coldfield, Warwickshire, England in November 1918. His fascination with cars began at an early age, and after leaving school at 15, he embarked on a journey to pursue his passion.
Miles started his career as an apprentice at Wolseley Motors, where he honed his skills and expanded his knowledge of vehicle construction. During this time, he also developed a love for motorcycles and even raced them before joining the British Army during World War II.
Rising Through the Ranks
Miles served as a driving instructor in the Territorial Army and later became a founding member of the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (REME). He showcased his mechanical aptitude as a tank commander in North West Europe and left a lasting impression with his high-performance engineering skills.
After the war, Miles continued to fuel his racing ambitions, competing in various events with the Vintage Sports Car Club and making a name for himself on the track.
Settling in America: The Shelby Connection
In 1952, Ken Miles made a significant move, relocating from England to Los Angeles, California. He found work as a service manager for Gough Industries, the Southern California MG distributor.
Miles wasted no time in showcasing his driving prowess, winning an impressive string of victories in SCCA racing with his own MG-based special.
His success caught the attention of the racing world, and he soon became an integral part of the Shelby/Cobra race team, working alongside automotive legend Carroll Shelby.
The Shelby Era: Ford v Ferrari
Ken Miles played a pivotal role in the development and success of the racing versions of the Shelby Cobra 289, Daytona Coupe, Ford GT (GT40), and more.
His expertise as a driver and mechanical engineer made him an invaluable asset to the team. Miles had a reputation for courtesy on the track and was often compared to Stirling Moss, another racing icon of his time.
Triumphs and Tragedy
Throughout his career, Ken Miles achieved numerous victories and accolades. He won the USAC Road Racing Championship in 1961 and secured three 12 Hours of Sebring wins in 1963, 1965, and 1966. One of his most notable triumphs came in 1966 when he won the 24 Hours of Daytona alongside Lloyd Ruby.
However, tragedy struck that same year at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Miles was leading the race when he was instructed to slow down for a photo finish, ultimately denying him the opportunity to secure victory. Sadly, just a few months later, Ken Miles lost his life in a racing accident while testing the Ford J-car at Riverside International Raceway.
The Legacy Lives On
Though his life was cut short, Ken Miles left an enduring legacy in the world of motorsports. His contributions to automotive engineering and his impressive driving skills continue to inspire racing enthusiasts and professionals alike.
In 2001, Miles was posthumously inducted into the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America, recognizing his significant impact on the sport.
