Don Garlits Swamp Rat I

Swamp Rat I: The first in Don Garlits’ series of legendary dragsters, the Swamp Rat I was first built in 1956, but would be modified many times before reaching its prime condition in 1958 when it set the world speed record at 180 mph. This front-engine dragster was then further modified when a blower was installed. This helped the Swamp Rat I to win several more races before the blower exploded and severely burned Garlits, who said he would never drive again.

His promise would not last long, however, and the design was once again modified and became the Swamp Rat I-B.  In 1961, the car was retired altogether and Garlits moved on to his subsequent Swamp Rat creations.

Swamp Rat I Model

Part of the Great American Dream Machines Quarter Mile series, this 1/43 model of the Swamp Rat I is delicately crafted from white metal.  It was made in England and is one of only 11 available.

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