The 1969 Chaparral 2H was originally designed to be a streamlined coupe, with the driver in a prone position looking through a Plexiglas nose. However, John Surtees, the driver hired by Jim Hall to drive the car, convinced the team to open the cockpit for a more conventional appearance and driver position. Although the innovative design may have eventually proved successful, differences of opinion between Surtees and Hall resulted in the Chaparral 2H never living up to the team's expectations. The car's best finish was a 4th at a race in Edmonton, Canada. To appease his driver, Hall even purchased a McLaren M12 for use in the 1969 Can-Am series, but that car's best finish was a 3rd place finish at the Mosport Can-Am race.