Pure Stock Muscle Car Drags
Written by Keith Fudge

Last September, Dennis Gage and the crew from My Classic Car had the chance to travel to Stanton, Michigan to witness the Pure Stock Muscle Car Drags!  Held at the Mid Michigan Motorplex, this event is a chance to see American muscle cars at their finest and in pristine original condition.  We visited with event co-founder, Dan Jensen, who told us a bit about the event’s history.  The event began approximately ten years ago and was held for the purpose of “heads-up” drag racing for pre-1974 muscle cars.  There were around 30 cars for the first event a decade ago, but that number has grown to approximately 120 cars during the last few years.  At that point, Dennis remarked that there were rare cars here and that he was impressed with how the cars were stunningly restored.  Dan responded, “We have nothing but the best.”  He then added that he believed these cars could compete well in car shows limited to their own makes or in open shows as well.  “We have trophy winning cars here,” Dan said with a smile.

To enter a car, there are rules that must be followed concerning the equipment.  However, there are some allowances such as radial tires that are permitted.  Upgrades to exhaust systems are also allowed, as long as certain specifications are followed.  When the event began, Dan was one of the racing participants, as was the other event co-founder, Bob Boden.  Today they have their hands full running what Dan refers to as, “organized chaos!”  Well, it all looked as if it was going smoothly to us as these remarkable cars made passes against each other and themselves in their attempts to reach the fastest times. 

The variety of cars that were registered was simply amazing.  There were signature and notable muscle cars such as Chevelle Super Sports, Mustangs, and GTOs.  In fact, there was even a Plymouth Superbird.  However, Dennis found Ted Harbit and what one might consider an unlikely participant for this event.  Ted is the proud owner of a 1963 Studebaker Super Lark—one of five Studies participating that day.  Powered by a supercharged 289 Avanti R2 engine, this ultimate sleeper pops at 9:1 compression and features disc brakes, a factory tachometer, and a 160-mile per hour speedometer.  Ted said that when he first brought the car to the event, he surprised several of his muscle car challengers by winning several races!  It goes to show that you just never know what may be lurking about.  Thanks, Ted!

Next, Dennis found Ed Nowakowski and his killer 1970 Ford Torino SCJ!  Ed is a real fanatic of this model, and he owns six of them just to prove it.  The legendary Ford 429 Super Cobra Jet engine powers this particular car.  The color combination is also unusual, as the exterior is Ford Medium Blue, and the interior is blue as well.  The car is a factory 4-speed model with console and is also equipped with a shaker hood and the Drag Pack option package that included a four-bolt main, Holley carburetor, and upgraded suspension.  These cars were rockets in their day, and they are still incredibly respectable.  Ed said that this one ran a 13.80 on its first pass.  Ed has been coming to this event for four years and said that it is a great time.  Later, Dennis found a classic Mopar in the form of Norm VerHage’s 1969 Barracuda.  Equipped with a 440, and with the optional fold-down rear seat, this fast fish was one of only 380 that were produced with the 440 engine.  Norm said that he has owned the car since 1985 and restored it from 1989 to 1992.  Concerning what was under the hood, Norm said the car was not numbers matching, but the motor was an original replacement block.  He also added that he has been coming here since 1987, and he trailers the car to events.  By the way, he ran a 13.72 at this meet.  Norm also has the original window sticker displayed showing a price of $4,200.00, and Dennis generously offered to pay him that amount on the spot.  Norm told him that amount just might be enough for a down payment.  Thanks Norm!  Finally, Dennis spotted John Miller and his stunning 1965 Olds 442.  Originally a California car, John has owned the vehicle for 21 years.  All he has done is replace the carpet.  Sporting factory paint in Turquoise Mist and powered by the original 345 horsepower, 400 cubic-inch engine, this legendary example of American muscle put up a time of 14.41 and 96 miles per hour at the track.  What a cool ride!

Dennis and the crew had a great time seeing these legendary muscle cars in their original state, doing what they do best…frying tires!  If you would like to know more about the Pure Stock Muscle Car Drags, give them a look on the web at www.purestockdrags.com.  That’s it from Stanton, Michigan.  So until our next visit, remember: “Honor the timeless classics.  Happy Motoring!”