Homemade Pusher Model Race Car, Made with a Mobil Oil Can, 1930-1940

Summary

Tether cars, gas-powered model race cars, were popular in the 1930s and 1940s. They were raced individually while tethered to a central pivot, or against each other on a scaled-down board track. It could be an expensive hobby. Top-of-the-line models cost nearly $100 (when a real Ford started around $500). Resourceful racers scratch-built their own cars, like this model fashioned from a Mobil oil can.

Tether cars, gas-powered model race cars, were popular in the 1930s and 1940s. They were raced individually while tethered to a central pivot, or against each other on a scaled-down board track. It could be an expensive hobby. Top-of-the-line models cost nearly $100 (when a real Ford started around $500). Resourceful racers scratch-built their own cars, like this model fashioned from a Mobil oil can.

Artifact

Model car

Date Made

1930-1940

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

2013.47.131

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford. Gift of Eric Zausner and the E-Z Spindizzy Foundation.

Material

Copper (Metal)
Rubber (Material)
Sheet metal
Wood (Plant material)

Color

Black (Color)
Red

Dimensions

Height: 9 in

Width: 12 in

Length: 27 in

Inscriptions

interior: Mobil Oil rear quarter panel: 13

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