The Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing holds a treasure trove of history, and among its iconic pieces is Don Garlits’ own 1939 Ford Coupe. This car, more than just a stylish vehicle, represents a pivotal moment in drag racing history, directly leading to the development of Garlits’ groundbreaking Chrysler-powered Swamp Rat dragsters. Photos of this coupe at the museum offer a fascinating glimpse into the ingenuity and evolution of the sport.
From Tow Car to Drag Strip Star: The ’39 Ford’s Transformation
Initially intended as a powerful tow vehicle for Garlits’ flathead dragster, the ’39 Ford Coupe underwent a significant transformation. Seeking a robust engine, Garlits replaced the original with a 1954 Chrysler 331 CID Hemi engine, a decision that would prove revolutionary. While images of the restored coupe showcase its sleek exterior, the real story lies under the hood. This seemingly simple engine swap marked a turning point, not only for Garlits personally, but for drag racing as a whole.
Unexpected Power: A Late-Night Revelation
A chance encounter with a friend at a local drive-in led to an impromptu street race. Garlits’ modified coupe, equipped with the powerful Hemi engine and surprisingly quiet original Chrysler mufflers, unexpectedly dominated the competition. This victory, against the fastest street car in Tampa at the time, highlighted the immense potential of the Chrysler Hemi engine for drag racing. Museum photos likely capture the raw power and unexpected speed of this modified coupe.
Birth of the Swamp Rat: A Legacy Begins
Further testing at MacDill Air Force Base confirmed the coupe’s impressive performance: a 14-second quarter-mile at 114 mph. This realization sparked the creation of the first Chrysler-powered Swamp Rat, solidifying Garlits’ place in drag racing history. Pictures of the ’39 Ford alongside the early Swamp Rat designs at the museum vividly illustrate this crucial link between the coupe and the legendary dragsters that followed.
The ’39 Ford Coupe: A Restored Icon
Sold in 1956 to fund Garlits’ first shop, the coupe eventually returned to his ownership in 1982. Painstakingly restored with a 1956 Chrysler Hemi, the car stands as a testament to its own historical significance and Garlits’ dedication to preserving drag racing heritage. Modern photos of the fully restored coupe at the Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing provide a stunning contrast to its humble beginnings, showcasing its enduring legacy. Visiting the museum allows enthusiasts to experience this history firsthand, viewing the car that ignited a revolution in drag racing technology and paved the way for generations of innovation.
