Drag racing has a rich history, and some factory drag cars have left a lasting impact on the sport. These purpose-built machines are designed for one thing only – to go fast in a straight line. From classic muscle cars to modern performance monsters, many factory drag cars have made history on the track. Let’s have a look at 15 of them.

Ford Mustang Cobra Jet

Introduced in 1968 the Cobra Jet from Ford dominated NHRA Super Stock classes. The car had a powerful 428 cubic-inch V8 engine that was a quarter-mile monster. What’s more? Its optimized aerodynamics, high-torque output, and advanced suspension system ensure maximum speed and stability on the track. 

Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

The Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 has a supercharged 6.2L V8 engine producing 650 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque. Key features include a 10-speed automatic transmission, Magnetic Ride Control, and advanced aerodynamics, providing exceptional speed, handling, and stability, making it a top choice for racers.

Dodge Challenger Drag Pak

Equipped with a 354 HEMI V8 engine, the Dodge Challenger Drag Pak delivers unparalleled power and acceleration. The car has race-ready chassis, lightweight components, and advanced suspension. Drag racers choose it for its reliability, customizability, and proven track record in competitive racing.

Plymouth Hemi’ Cuda

The 1970s Plymouth’s Hemi’ Cuda was an icon of American muscle cars. This drag vehicle had a 426 Hemi V8 under the hood that produced up to 425 horsepower and was an excellent competitor on the drag strip. Legendary racer Ronnie Sox drove the Hemi ‘Cuda, making it his final winning machine.

Pontiac GTO Judge Ram Air IV

With its 400 cubic inch and V8 engine producing 370 horsepower, the Pontiac GTO Judge Ram Air IV excels in drag racing. Its high-flow exhaust manifolds, aggressive camshaft, and functional Ram Air hood scoop enhance performance. It’s a top choice for acres who crave exceptional power-to-weight ratio and robust construction.

Chevrolet COPO Camaro

Chevrolet’s COPO Camaro was born out of the desire to dominate NHRA Stock Eliminator classes. With options for various engines, like the legendary 427 cubic-inch V8, it was a formidable contender on the drag strip. Its purpose-built design and race-ready features made it a drag racing legend.

Ford Thunderbolt

In 1964, Ford introduced the Thunderbolt, a limited-production drag racer based on the Fairlane. It featured a lightweight design and a high-performance 427 cubic-inch V8 engine. With its impressive power-to-weight ratio, it was a dominant force in drag racing. 

Chevrolet Corvette ZR1

The Corvette ZR1, particularly the C6 ZR1, was a street-legal drag racing machine. With a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 producing over 600 horsepower, it was capable of blistering quarter-mile times. 

Dodge Dart Swinger 340

Packing a punch with a 340 cubic-inch V8 engine, the Dodge Dart Swinger 340 was a compact powerhouse. Drag racing enthusiasts loved this car in the late ’60s and early ’70s thanks to its lightweight design and impressive performance on the strip.

Ford Fairlane 427 R-Code’

Ford’s Fairlane 427 R-Code was a factory drag racer built for one purpose: to dominate the quarter-mile. The car had a 427 cubic-inch V8 engine and lightweight construction and was a competitor in Super Stock classes.

Plymouth Road Runner Hemi

The Plymouth Road Runner Hemi was a street-legal muscle car with serious drag racing credentials. Moreover, a 426 Hemi V8 engine was built to tear up the quarter-mile. Its no-nonsense approach to performance and unmistakable style made it a favorite among drag racers

Oldsmobile 442 W30

“Dyno” Don Nicholson was one of the most famous racers to ride the Oldsmobile 442 W30. This car had a potent 455 cubic-inch V8 engine, lightweight components, and 370 horsepower.  

Buick GSX Stage 1

The Buick GSX Stage 1 was a sleeper in the world of drag racing, with its 455 cubic-inch V8 engine. Despite its understated appearance, it was capable of impressive quarter-mile times, earning respect on the drag strip.

AMC Rebel Machine

This drag racing vehicle excelled due to its potent 390 cubic-inch V8 engine and lightweight design. The AMC Rebel Machine’s unique combination of power and agility allowed it to compete effectively in drag racing events, surprising competitors with its impressive quarter-mile times. 

Shelby GT500 Super Snake

Built for drag racing supremacy, the Shelby GT500 Super Snake was a limited-production monster. The car had a supercharged 5.8-liter V8 engine producing over 800 horsepower. Famous drag racer Prudhomme, drove the Super Snake on the track early in his career.