For the world of drag racing, 1957 was a year of big progression. On February 3, 1957, the speed record was broken via a 165.13-mph run. The officials were in such disbelief, they set up another run and the driver delivered an even better pass with 166.97 mph. In the wake of this, the fuel ban was created along with the elimination of multiple-engine cars and non-pump gas. Despite the changes, drag racing was still gaining traction and made the cover of LIFE magazine. And unsurprisingly, at the end of that year, the three fastest cars in the sport were Chrysler HEMI® vehicles!
Jack Beckman’s Hot Rod History: Episode 1
Jack Beckman’s Hot Rod History: Episode 2
Jack Beckman’s Hot Rod History: Episode 3
Jack Beckman’s Hot Rod History: Episode 4
Jack Beckman’s Hot Rod History: Episode 5
Jack Beckman’s Hot Rod History: Episode 6
Jack Beckman’s Hot Rod History: Episode 8
Jack Beckman’s Hot Rod History: Episode 9
Jack Beckman’s Hot Rod History: Episode 10