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