The LaLD car week was a fantastic event. All the diecast-enthusiasts showed off the best of their best.
The more I was happy, when I heard, that there would be an engine-week.
A few of you guys know, that I am addicted to V8-race cars. So I decided to show you this beast with a massive V8
The presented Dodge Charger of the traditional racing team “Don Schumacher Racing” was used in 2015 as part of the NHRA (National Hot Rod Association) drag racing series and was driven by two-time Funny Car champion Matt Hagan.
This 1/24th scale diecast was made by AutoWorld and has a total length (including the wheelie bar) of 245 millimeters.
In contrast to the Top Fuel dragsters, the Funny Cars`engine is in front of the driver. In addition, a body cover, which more or less resembles a road car, extends over the tubular frame on which the complete engine and drive unit is mounted.
Even in the miniature version of the dragster, the tubular frame including the driver cockpit with safety belts and the huge V8 engine with all cables and lines is faithfully reproduced. Behind the large-dimensioned Good Year tires is the wheelie bar attached to the chassis, which prevents the front part of the vehicle from rising during take-off.
The vehicle is painted in the typical colors of the motor oil manufacturer “PENNZOIL” and the company logo adorns the sides, as well as a part of the seemingly endless hood. The exit hatch above the driver’s cab is also marked with the logo.
For me, the paintworks in the PENNZOIL-desgin are a true classic in the american motorsport scene. Many vehicles from the most diverse racing series already carry or wore the familiar lettering. In addition, there are more decals from various sponsors on the body.
To save weight, the bodywork of the original vehicles is made of lightweight fiberglass. The body hood of the model consists, except for the spoiler structures at the rear, completely made of metal and can be displayed with open or closed hood. For presentation with the hood open, the model comes with a sturdy metal holder.
The technical performance of the Funny Cars are impressive.... or let`s say INSANE!!!
The V8 engine with 500 cui (8.2 liters) delivers 10,000 hp and accelerates the almost 1,200 kilograms vehicle from 0-100mph (0-160 km/h) in 0.8 sec. The car sets the usual drag race distance of a quarter mile ( 402.34 meters) within 3.8 seconds, reaching a top speed of over 330 mph (530 km/h).
In order to be able to absorb this high speed again, the vehicles are still equipped with rear brake parachutes in addition to the normal brakes. These are triggered by the driver after crossing the finish line and slow down the vehicle.
