Tuner and racing enthusiast Greg Friedrich acquired a rusted-over 1960 Plymouth Fury wagon a few years ago, intending to upgrade it somewhat for normal driving. One thing led to another, and before he knew he was looking at a dedicated speed racer designed like no other car in the world.
He removed two doors, chopped the roof, redesigned the front grille and the fenders to minimize drag, and put giant purpose-built brakes on based on Brembo components. The entire new bodywork and kit were made from solid metal to weigh the car down and hopefully give it enough traction for a speed record.
Powering the unique ride is an 8.6-liter HEMI engine built by Wheeler Racing Engines. The horsepower rating is not mentioned anywhere, but the mill is said to be ideal for speed racing.
According to Friedrich, his dream was to drive the bizarre wagon from his home in Minnesota to the famed Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah, hit 200 miles per hour (322 km/h) there, and drive back home. He succeeded in everything except the speed target, which he fell short of with just 160 mph (257 km/h).
Still, there is no denying the project is impressive on many levels. Friedrich may want to make another run after some further tweaking, especially considering that the car took two and a half years to make.