Gateway Classic Cars is pleased to present a collection of gas
dragsters Gassers in our Indianapolis showroom. This one, Morris
Monster a 1958 Morris Minor based A/Gas dragster, is powered by a
big block 454 Chevrolet fed by dual four barrel carburetors on a
tunnel ram intake driving through a manual valve body TH400
transmission. Beautiful blue custom metallic paint really makes
this handmade Gasser pop in the sun. Here is some history for those
who would like background on this exciting style of dragster. The
term Gasser refers to a style of drag race car that was prolific in
the late 1950s through the 1960s that ran on gasoline as fuel, as
opposed to race fuel. These cars typically competed in heads up
drag races that were classed by engine size and car weight. In the
faster classes the cars used a straight axle front suspension that
produced the intimidating stance that gassers are known for. Easily
recognized by common features like the higher front end stance that
was developed as a means of weight transfer to the rear wheels for
traction, this style became popular later as builders attempted to
achieve a traditional or nostalgic race look. These cars became fan
favorites as the well-known racers began to run grudge matches for
higher purses. In no time these matches were the top billing at
many shows due to the crowd entertainment factor. Gassers were the
top drag racing classes in the period that is now referred to as
the gasser war years, which ranged from 1955 through 1968.In
addition to the straight axle, most gassers also sported Halibrand
wheels, no front bumper, and had a front mounted Moon tank. The
gasser form was dictated by function and most builders looked to
eliminate as much weight as possible. Having their exhaust pipes
exit through the front fender to shorten the length of exhaust
tubing is another common characteristic of gassers. Builders used
1930s through 1950s production coupes or sedans to create these
highly modified racing vehicles. Late model cars were not allowed
in the Gas classes until 1967, and the gas classes were totally
eliminated by NHRA in 1972. They run today all over the United
States and down under in Australia and New Zealand in vintage and
nostalgia drags. To view this gas dragster, please visit our site
at www.gatewayclassiccars.com, call 317-688-1100, or email us at
[email protected]. To see this 1958 Morris Minor A/Gas
dragster in person, stop by our showroom located at 4400 West 96th
Street, Indianapolis, IN 46268.
https://www.gatewayclassiccars.com/NDY/1161/1958-Morris-Minor
