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This is the next in the Swamp Rat Series from GMP, the Swamp Rat III - C. In reading the various historical accounts regarding top speed claims, some say E.T. was 8.0 sec @ 191.00. However, in promotional material given out by Garlits in the '60's, the E.T. is touted as 7.88 sec @ 198.66. Being that the record time is painted on the car, this is what I will go by. SRIII replicated by GMP is the "C" series driven by Connie Swingle. There are some great archive pictures of Garlits holding the dragster at the lights with one hand, preventing the car from drifting while staged. Guess you had to know when to let go!!! Powered by the 392 Chrysler hemi, 1330 hp engine, this dragster was campaigned between 1961-1962. Wheelbase was 115 in. and weighed in at 1500 lbs. Look at those stats closely…..lots of power, low weight. This dragster was run in the top fuel class using a mixture of 90% nitro, 3% benzene and 7% alcohol.
GMP has again, exceeded my expectations on detail and features on this model. The hemi is represented in detailed splendor, from the Hilborn injectors to the mag ignition wires. Fuel lines, regulators and hoses encrust the engine. The body panels, as on SR I, are formed aluminum. The cockpit is detailed with cloth seat belts with photo-etched details. Paint detailing is excellent and really captures the dragster's historic looks. Front wheel spokes are replicated in delicate photo-etch material and the steering is poseable.
The rear parachute on my pre-production sample, looked like it needed a little help, so I made a few suggestions. GMP's track record for "listening" to collectors, is great. I'm sure there will be a few neat surprises on the final rendition. I have had the chance to see the headers detailed with a chrome heat discoloration on a few other test samples and it's the most realistic effect yet. If you collect historic dragsters or you've started the GMP Swamp Rat series with SR I, this is also a "must have"!
(09/30/2001)
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