

This alternative “top fuel” (hence the name) is essentially gasoline that’s been pre-mixed with nitrous oxide.

Starting with fuel, these race cars use nitromethane instead of gasoline. The Bizarre Story of the Porsche 935 K3 Race Car.The (frankly ridiculous) amount of power coming from these machines is made possible by optimizing that mixture of fuel, air, and spark. The engine in a Top Fuel dragster is largely similar to what you’ve got under the hood of your daily driver. These are the building blocks of horsepower. However, the top level of the sport has since evolved into a horsepower shootout, with the fastest Top Fuel dragsters cranking out up to 11,000 hp.įor any internal combustion engine to function, you need three ingredients: fuel, air, and spark. Following such a visceral experience-which could’ve fooled me into thinking the world was ending-I did some digging to find out what makes these machines tick.ĭrag racing is one of the simplest forms of motorsport without any corners, pit stops, or gear changes, it boils down to “whoever’s fastest wins.” The sport began with a simple “run what you’ve brung” ethos, breeding big amounts of fun at little expense. But few experiences are etched into my brain quite as deeply as when I heard two 11,000-horsepower Top Fuel dragsters fire off the starting line.
#Drag racing cars for sale drivers#
I’ve been to racetracks all over the world to see the best riders and drivers on two and four wheels, respectively. Like any self-respecting petrolhead, I’m captivated by all things internal combustion.
