Egotistical race-car driver Dusty Rhoades learns that humility pays off even better than acclaim.

Auto racer Speed Carr enters a marathon race across the United States, from New York to Los Angeles. He encounters numerous obstacles not related to the race and must switch identities and vehicles before he can finish.

"Toodles" Waldron, racing enthusiast and the best salesman for J. D. Ward's automobile company, quarrels with his boss; Ward will not let him enter the Santa Monica Grand Prize Road Race, or marry his daughter Dorothy.

Race-car drivers pursue Mabel Normand, whose father has a clear favorite.