Drag Racing and Dragsters: What’s New?

Sometimes it’s hard to believe that drag racing even existed before the release of movies like The Fast and The Furious (parts 1 through 6). However, the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) – which is basically a governing body that sets rules and regulations to organize (and legalize) drag racing in the US and Canada – has been promoting the sport since the early 1950’s.

Today, the NHRA has evolved to become the largest motorsports governing body in the world with approximately 80,000 members. Drag racing fans gather year round to enjoy tons of races featured in the NHRA Championship Drag Racing Series, which comprises five professional classes. These classes include; Top Fuel Dragster, Funny Car, Pro Stock, Pro Stock Motorcycle, and Pro Modified – a wide variety that is sure to please any drag racing fan. Continue reading to find out what you can expect to see on the racetrack in the near future.

2015 Dodge Challenger Drag Pak

While other auto manufacturers pride themselves on advanced safety features and top-notch audio systems – Dodge clearly wanted no part in this trend when configuring its latest purpose built race car, the 2015 Challenger Drag Pak by Mopar. Though the car has yet to be released, Dodge provided its dragster fans with a sneak preview of what’s to come – a prototype of the car was unveiled back in August, at the 60^th annual NHRA U.S. Nationals races in Indianapolis. Check it out in action:

Body Design

You don’t need to have auto technician training to see that at first glance, Dodge’s new drag racing prototype closely resembles an updated version of its 2015 Challenger SRT Hellcat, with a few slight differences in design. The Drag Pak prototype is equipped with custom gauges, safety nets, lightweight racing seats, harnesses and a roll cage. Its wheels measure 15 inches, with front tires measuring 28×4.5 inches and rear ones that are slighting bigger, at 30×9 inches. Though they appear to be similar vehicles, any automotive service technician can tell you that the Drag Pak and SRT Hellcat are clearly different – it is the Drag Pak’s specific modifications that will set these two apart.

What’s in the Hood?

The 2015 Drag Pak prototype houses a 7.0-litre HEMI V-8 engine which – as anyone enrolled in mechanic courses knows – is built for speed and racing. Its engine features an aluminium block, which helps keep the car’s weight as low as possible – perfect for any race. The engine is also connected to a 727 automatic transmission which features a line lock to promote the expert burnouts that all dragsters crave.

There is no confirmed launch date for the 2015 Dodge Challenger Drag Pak just yet, as all of its specs are still in the process of being evaluated. The vehicle’s specs are also still pending approval from the National Hot Rod Association.

Any other new hot rods you’re looking forward to checking out?  Let us know in the comments.