For those who are unfamiliar with gassers, the car’s awkward height and strange suspension may seem to defy logic at the drag strip, but it does serve a purpose. Those who have been around racing for years understand the importance of weight transfer in drag racing, so the additional height helped to create a higher center of gravity thus improving weight transfer.
Although the shorter wheel base vehicles were ideal for the purpose building this style of car, the style and functionality of this 1957 Ford Gasser wagon is impressive. Originally, these cars could be anywhere from a mild modified street car to a purpose built race only machine. However, this Ford wagon is a great example of how much fun these machines can be on the drag strip.
Images captured from video.
As the driver begins the burnout, it becomes clear that the Ford has a few upgrades underneath hood. Once the driver stages the wagon, it is clear the Chevrolet in the next lane is going to be facing some stiff competition. With an 11.10 as a dial-in on the back of the ’57, this is certainly not a stock engine.
Many may say that running low 11-second ET’s is not that impressive, but it takes both money and time to get a classic car to run those numbers. Some of the new cars can run that right off the dealership lot, but to build an 11-second car is another thing entirely. It may not be the fastest car on at the drag strip, but it is worthy of respect thanks to history behind this style.