Early Fiat Racing History

I came across an interesting on-line magazine article by respected auto racing historian Karl Ludvigsen that describes the early racing history of Fiat in America. In light of the company's current relationship with Chrysler, America might be seeing a lot more of Fiat and premium brand Alfa-Romeo.
 
The article comes in Part 1 and Part 2. Both articles contain some interesting photographs I have not seen before, such as shots of David Bruce-Brown (including the remains of his Fiat after his fatal accident) and Ralph De Palma. I am incredulous about a suggestion in Part 1 that a Fiat recorded a speed of 181 mph over a mile on the Long Island Motor Parkway in April 1912. Paved with concrete, the Long Island Motor Parkway had a state-of-the-art surface, but there were so many winding curves (dodging areas that were too tough to develop or spots where the constructors could not obtain right of way) that I just can't fathom attaining that speed especially with the need to stop the beast. What's more, it wasn't until 1920 for someone - namely Tommy Milton - to bust the 150 mph barrier. Nothing about that 1912 claim passes the smell test.
 
Aside from that, there are some good images and good information in this article. If you're reading this, you're the type of person who will enjoy the article.