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The name Don Garlits and drag racing are synonymous. In the 50's Garlits was an innovator and many of his creations laid the groundwork for modern dragster technology. In 1956, Don built the first in a series of Swamp Rats, known today as Swamp Rat I. This dragster was built on 1930 Chevy frame rails, had a tubular roll bar and a 392 Chrysler hemi. GMP, in its tradition of bringing historic racing images to the collector, has faithfully replicated this significant dragster.
Dragsters of this era were not that big, so 1:18th scale is perfect for this image, in my opinion. It shows off incredible detail, yet does not take up considerable shelf space. My sample was a pre-production unit, but still managed to catch my attention and the attention of many of my drag racing friends. The 392 Chrysler is authentically replicated, from the Chrysler "Fire-dome" valve covers to the 8 Stromberg 97 carbs. Delicate fuel lines snake thru the model, leaving the fuel tank and finding their way to the carbs. The "weed-burner" headers sweep up from the model giving it an even more sinister look. The re-capped whitewall slicks are realistically executed and show surface "wear". Rear wheels even have valve stem detail. The front motorcycle spoke wheels are beautifully done in delicate photo-etch.
The one feature that absolutely "blows me away" are the formed aluminum body panels. This feature is awesome! The dragster body is adorned in a jet-black finish with pearl flames, extra fine pin stripping and appropriate sponsor decals. I have seen other manufacturers try to replicate "pearl paints, but have to admit that GMP's attempts are phenomenal. The interior is also faithfully replicated, right down to the fuel pump over the differential. For those that are not aware, Garlits, not only having to worry about piloting this beast down the quarter mile at 170 mph, also had to hand pump the fuel to the Strombergs…..now, that's coordination! If you're a drag racing fan…this is a must have model.
(09/30/2001)
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