Vapor Trailers Car Club Completes Tribute Dragster Honoring Club’s Rich Legacy

The legendary Vapor Trailers Car Club has brought a piece of drag racing history roaring back to life with the completion of their tribute dragster—a faithful recreation built entirely by current club members to honor the legacy of the original drag racing car and the clubs 75th Anniversary in 2024.

The tribute dragster is powered by a 324 cubic inch Oldsmobile engine, mounted on a custom-built frame with a Model A front end. A Powerglide transmission with a trans brake handles shifting duties, while six 2-barrel carburetors provide an aggressive vintage look and serious power delivery—true to its 1960s roots.

The original Vapor Trailers dragster gained central valley attention when the club was featured as Hot Rod Magazine’s “Club of the Month” in May 1961. The dragster was prominently pictured alongside the club members in the magazine article, capturing a moment that helped cement the club’s place in hot rod history.

Fast forward over six decades, the completed tribute car made a fitting public debut at the 75th Anniversary celebration of the Vapor Trailers Car Club. It was displayed proudly in front of the historic Fox Theatre in Visalia during the Lion’s Breakfast Club’s annual Car Show, drawing admiration from longtime enthusiasts and curious newcomers alike.

This isn’t just a showpiece, either. The dragster has already been put through its paces at Eagle Field in Firebaugh, California—one of the few remaining places where vintage drag racing still thrives.

Looking ahead, the Vapor Trailers have plans to continue showing the car at events and making additional drag strip appearances. Club members are still fine-tuning the setup, determined to keep the spirit of traditional drag racing alive while showcasing their craftsmanship and passion.

As the car evolves, one thing remains certain: the tribute dragster is more than a machine—it’s a living legacy, built with pride, and a roaring tribute to one of California’s most iconic car clubs.