Mickey Thompson, who set and holds more automotive speed records than any other living man, was the guiding force behind the original Mini Dragster. With over two years of planning and design, Mickey constructed the diminutive demon in the image of its full-sized brothers. The driver sits behind the rear wheels and is encased in a true dragster roll cage. The frame is full tubular steel and power is provided by a dependable four-cycle Tecumseh easy starting motor. A centrifugal clutch sends the power to a rear end equipped with real spider gears. A heavy-duty spot brake is used to stop the dragster. The most unique feature of this mini slingshot is the incredible wheel standing ability. Punch the throttle and lean back, and the mini dragster will pop a wheelie just like the true Double-A Fueler!

This example of Mickey’s Mini Dragster is in beautifully restored condition and is painted an eye-popping Acapulco blue with striking yellow pinstriping. It features the legendary M/T logo on the back of the fiberglass body. It also wears the logo for the Lions Drag Strip of Long Beach, California. The butterfly type steering wheel, heims-joint tie rods, and the very rare Mickey Thompson front wheels keep the dragster on a straight course down the strip.

With its simple but sturdy engineering and racy good looks, Mickey had a hit with his mini monster, producing approximately 180 of them. They proved extremely popular with both children and adults alike, including Mario Andretti and Paul Newman. Extant photos show Mickey himself pulling wheelstands and even Mario Andretti looking cool as ever riding one in a fire suit and sunglasses.

These mini dragsters are rarely seen and even less seldom sold. This example represents an opportunity to own arguably the finest extant, and it will surely make an impression at the next swap meet, car show, or in the paddock at the next racing event.