The term “hot rod” is often associated with classic cars, but it is still used today to describe cars that have been modified for greater performance. The origin of the term is not clear, but one theory is that it comes from the contraction of “hot roadster”, which was a lightweight two-door car that was often used as the basis for early hot rods. The term was born from a time just before World War II, when soldiers would come home and modify their cars to make them attractive or desirable. A hot rod is typically an American car with an oversized engine modified for linear speed.
The term “connecting rod” comes from the connecting rods of the high-powered or “hot” engine. Different custom car prototypes started making waves on the endurance racing circuit, also called “fun cars” due to their strange appearance. Some of these prototypes moved the rear wheels forward to impact weight distribution and offer better acceleration and speed, completely changing the look and feel of the car. The idea for the backyard hot rod shop had returned, and these magnificent vehicles became symbols of American creativity and ingenuity.
A hot rod with a strong, built engine may be impressive at a car show, but it may not take you home in one piece. Hot rod culture is still alive and well with fans in the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, Sweden and Canada.
