In September 2017, Brian Fitzpatrick’s Lucas Oil-sponsored rail dragster set the world record for import powered rail dragsters while competing in the Extreme Dragster class at the Import Face-Off event in Bakersfield, California . His rail was powered by a heavily modified turbo charged 3000 hp Toyota 2JZ six cylinder engine. He ran the 1/4 mile in 5.87-seconds at over 240 mph, making it the quickest and fastest import-powered rail dragster on Earth.

This is very impressive and a huge accomplishment, however, while I'm not trying to minimize Brian's accomplishment, is it just me or should true NHRA dragsters be powered by Detroit Iron based engines? Or am I just too Old School?

source: Dragzine.com, JE Pistons.com

A throwback to the wild 1960s exhibition era—who remembers when TV cars like the Munsters Drag-U-La toured with real dragsters?

Designed by Tom Daniel and built by Barris Kustom Industries to function as a real front engine dragster. It's genuine fiberglass casket body sat on a lite tube frame and was powered by a 350 hp / 289-cubic-inch Ford V8 engine, with Mickey Thompson ram-induction intakes, dual quad-Jet carburetors, custom zoomie headers made from oran pipes, a 4 speed manual transmission, and a Ford rear end with 10.5" Firestone racing slicks.

It was mechanically designed to mirror the "AA/Fuel dragster" class design trends of the 60's. It even had a Deist decelleration parachute. The original cost of construction was approximately $15,000 (around $156,000 in 2026 dollars).

Historical NHRA track footage revealed it could run the 1/4 mile in the low 10's at approximately 133 mph. Which was pretty fast fot the day. It had a huge power to weight ration, however being that it was primarily designed as a functioning exhibit it had poor aerodynamic qualities and an inadequate hand controlled brake system which relied heavily on the drag chute for deceleration.

I remember when it came out and it was a cool looking dragster.

I’ve been a fan of drag racing since 1986. Over the years, I’ve had a lot of interests and hobbies, but NHRA has always been one of the constants in my life.
A while back, I decided to start a podcast. I’ve had the opportunity to talk with a lot of interesting people, but one interview stands out above the rest.
At an NHRA event, I noticed a Funny Car driver who wasn’t necessarily one of the household names like John Force or Ron Capps. What caught my attention was his personality, attitude, and the way he treated the fans. That driver was Jim Campbell.
I took a chance and asked Jim if he would join me on my podcast. To my surprise, he said yes. The interview was fantastic, and afterward I jokingly asked if I could have a spot on his Funny Car. Once again, he said yes.
Since then, I’ve had the chance to spend time with both Jim and Heather, and they are some of the most genuine, down-to-earth people you’ll ever meet.
That experience reminded me of something special about NHRA racing: your ticket is also a pit pass. You’re not separated from the action. You can meet the drivers, talk to the teams, and sometimes create memories and friendships you never expected.
So if you ever get the chance, stop by Jim Campbell Racing and say hello. You never know where a simple conversation might lead.