Career
In 1944, during the Continuation War between Finland and the Soviet Union, Nurmi took part in the battles at the Teikar Island (currently in Russian Carelia) and was injured in battle. His work was supported financially by several international oil companies as well as the Finnish government. His independently constructed V8 Premier racing motorcycle received global interest in its time.
The V8 Premier was a 350cm3 V8-powered 4-stroke motorcycle engine with a V angle of 90°.
The engine was air-cooled and each of its cylinders had its own carburetor. Tauno Nurmi was one of the pioneers of motorcycle racing and construction in Finland.
He started his career as a TT motorcycle racer by winning the Estonian Nationals at the Pirita track in the 500 cm3 series. He was awarded with the Gold Medal by the Finnish Motor Association in 1965.
Later in life, Tauno Nurmi became an active athlete in different masters sports events, competing especially in speed skating.
