In 1951 the B.S. Cunningham Company of West Palm Beach, Florida caused a sensation in both American and European motoring circles when they announced that they would build an American sports car and race it at Le Mans. Team Cunningham was already a favorite with the Le Mans fans, having made a popular showing in the 1950 race with a pair of Cadillacs, but this sophisticated and powerful new machine reaffirmed Briggs' ever-growing commitment to fielding a winning team of American cars piloted by American drivers. The Cunninghams became fan favorites wherever they ran.

Cunningham entered five different models in the French classic from 1951 through 1955, finishing as high as third overall. During the same period in America, the cars scored 14 wins at such legendary venues as Bridgehampton, Watkins Glen and Elkhart Lake. Rules for Le Mans dictated that the company also produce road cars, of which all examples are now highly valued for their historical significance.