Abstract: A mechanical starter is formed by two disc-shaped elements coaxial with e other and rotatable with respect to each other to which at least two strips of elastomeric material, coplanar with each other, are fixed through their ends. One of the two disc-shaped elements is secured to an envelope of the internal combustion engine while the other disc-shaped element rotates with respect to the first. Apparatus is provided for deforming the strips of elastomeric material to thereby store energy in the strips and for delivering the stored energy to the shaft of the engine.