How Peter Krause Defies Age and Logic to Dominate Track Races in a Vintage Fiat

During the high-octane world of motorsports, it’s easy to assume that youth and muscle cars reign supreme. Yet, at the Lime Rock Historics, a remarkable figure stood out—not for his age or the power of his vehicle, but for his sheer tenacity and skill. Peter Krause, at 65, piloted a vintage Fiat X1/9—a car that had seen little action prior to the event—yet managed to clinch victory in all four of his races. How did Krause achieve such a remarkable feat against younger, more powerful competitors? Let’s dive into his extraordinary journey.

From Electronics to Elegance

Peter’s fascination with mechanics began in childhood. Growing up in Philadelphia, his interests leaned towards electronics and trains, with nothing igniting a passion for automobiles until he was 20. His first significant encounter was a ride in a BMW 530i, which left an indelible impression. But it wasn't until 1979 when college life prompted him to abandon public transport and dive headfirst into car culture.

While attending college in Western Massachusetts, Peter made a fateful decision to purchase a 1967 Volkswagen bus for $700. He undertook an ambitious project: rebuilding the engine in his dorm room, an endeavor that might make any resident advisor shudder. The engine eventually ran smoothly, but that was just the beginning of his automotive saga.

A Turning Point: The Chrysler Rabbit

His pivotal moment came during a family visit in 1983 when his father brought home a Rabbit GTI. This was the moment the hook was set. From there, Peter bought a Fiat 131 and a BMW 2002, igniting a lifelong love for driving and racing. His enthusiasm eventually led to an entrepreneurial spark; after he was gifted tools by his father, he began offering oil changes and minor repairs in college parking lots.

Building Expertise with Exotics

After a stint at a Fiat dealership where he gained vital experience, he ventured into exotic car mechanics. His bold approach led him to offer his services to affluent clients, working on Maseratis and the like. His big break materialized when he was tasked to convert a Maserati Ghibli from automatic to a manual transmission. This entree allowed him to gain the respect of local racing enthusiasts.

Eventually, Peter became known as a reliable mechanic for luxury automobiles, particularly in the Ferrari and Alfa Romeo communities. He launched his first business—Krause & England—which quickly established itself as a premier service facility for Italian cars along the East Coast.

Driving into the Fast Lane

As Krause honed his skills, he transitioned from mechanic to a racer himself. He began instructing driving schools, sharing invaluable knowledge about vehicle dynamics with clients on the track. His passion didn't stop with instruction; he also participated in amateur racing, developing a notable reputation among fellow racers. Eventually, Peter formed his own path in the competitive realm of vintage racing, where he drove a Fiat 850 Spider.

The Art of Coaching and Instruction

Peter Krause is not merely a mechanic or a racer; he has masterfully blended these experiences into a teaching career. Veteran driving coaches took notice of his talent, leading him to mentor everything from young amateurs to seasoned racers. His methodologies focus on listening to the unique needs of each client and building their confidence through targeted practice.

By understanding driver psychology alongside mechanical aspects, he equips students with tools and knowledge to excel. Krause’s philosophy is simple: there is no silver bullet for speed in racing—it’s all about refining skills and consistently unlocking potential.

A Bright Future in Racing

Time has only enhanced Krause’s craft, culminating in his stunning performances at the Lime Rock Historics. Racing is no longer just about speed; it’s about control, finesse, and perhaps a little wisdom from years of experience. Reuniting with his vintage Fiat X1/9, Krause demonstrated that age is just a number, and that true mastery comes with dedication, practice, and a lifelong love for the sport.

As he passionately navigates the track, proving every skeptic wrong, he has become a testament to the spirit of racing: it’s not always about the horsepower—sometimes it’s about heart.