1987 A.J. Foyt Sets World Record with the Aerotech at Fort Stockton

On August 26, 1987, the development team tested the two completed cars on the Fort Stockton test track in the presence of FIA officials. Initial tests with the short-tail version of the car resulted in an average speed of 250.919 mph (403.815 km/h), falling just short of the closed-course speed record set by the Mercedes CIII-IV development prototype. As the team adjusted the car's aerodynamics, Foyt tested the second, long-tail car. The long-tail version proved to be even more capable than its short-tail sibling, allowing Foyt to reach a top speed of 275 mph (443 km/h) in the flying mile after some practice runs.[1]

Foyt set a new speed record with the long-tail version the next day, averaging 267.399 mph (430.337 km/h) after flying-mile runs in both directions of the track. Subsequent runs made with the now modified short-tail version resulted in a new closed-course speed record of 257.123 mph (413.799 km/h), beating Mercedes' record by a large margin.[1]

The speed records garnered considerable publicity for Oldsmobile, and helped boost sales. The Aerotechs made several appearances at autoshows across North America. A non-functional mockup with a makeshift interior also made appearances at various circuit races.