American Racing Turns 60: A Look At An American Icon

American Racing Turns 60: A Look At An American Icon

American Racing introduced the Torq Thrust in the 1960s as car driving in the U.S. was extending past the family car and becoming something young adults went crazy for.

11053354_10152906380621977_8585746564076081492_nAmerican Racing introduced the Torq Thrust in the 1960s as car driving in the U.S. was extending past the family car and becoming something young adults went crazy for. These now Baby Boomers began looking at a car not just as transportation, but as an extension of their personality, and the aftermarket wheels provided the first real alternative to factory styles. Since that time, the company has created some of the most iconic wheels selected by car enthusiast and hot rodders alike.

The company began designing other wheels that would be driven on some of the most popular cars of their generation, including:

• The Torq Thrust wheel, which can be seen on the cars driven by the four teenage friends in the cult classic, “American Graffiti”
• Steve McQueen’s famous green 1968 Ford Mustang GT 390 fastback in “Bullitt”
• The Dukes of Hazard drove the General Lee, a 1969 Dodge Charger with American Racing Vector wheels
• The A-Team rescued innocents inside its black and metallic gray 1983 GMC Vandura with a characteristic red stripe, a rooftop spoiler and red American Racing Vector wheels

“American Racing has left an indelible mark on American culture, which we think is a pretty powerful statement,” said Jody Groce, president at American Racing. “It’s hard to imagine that these wheels were featured on what is arguably the best chase scene in American cinema as well as iconic motorsports moments that many of our customers grew up watching as kids. I think what we have done is pretty special, and we are excited to talk about it.”

The company says the 60th anniversary of American Racing should remind enthusiasts everywhere about the historic impact on American culture the tires have had and how it has grown from a single iconic wheel to an industry that fuels the passion of millions of people.

For more information on American Racing, go to americanracing.com or on social media at Facebook and Instagram.

You May Also Like

Standard Motor Products Announces 123 New Numbers

The release provides new coverage in 53 distinct product categories and 47 part numbers for 2023 and 2024 model-year vehicles.

Standard Motor Products, Inc. (SMP) announced the introduction of 123 new part numbers in its March new number announcement. The release provides new coverage in 53 distinct product categories and 47 part numbers for 2023 and 2024 model-year vehicles.

Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) Segment

Standard’s Fuel Injection program has expanded with eight GDI High-Pressure Fuel Pumps and GDI High-Pressure Fuel Pump Kits. Standard’s line of Variable Valve Timing components also grows with this release. VVT Sprockets have been added for Ford vehicles through 2023, and VVT Solenoids are new for General Motors vehicles. Oil Filter Housing Assemblies are new for popular European vehicles, and Oil Coolers have been added for Nissan and Subaru vehicles. Adding to Standard’s extensive Electronic Throttle Body program, new numbers have been introduced for the 2022 Ford Bronco Sport and 2022-20 Ford Escape, the company said.

BendPak Founder Don Henthorn Passes Away

Grew company from small machine shop to global leader in car lifts and garage equipment.

ASE Practice Tests Available Online

You can get a good idea of what to expect by adding the official ASE practice tests to their study plans.

AACF Celebrates 65 Years Serving the Aftermarket

AACF will be announcing more details about this commemorative fundraiser April 1st.

Auto Care Association Launches REPAIR Act Video

The goal is to emphasize the need for federal REPAIR Act legislation, according to the Auto Care Association.

Other Posts

Valvoline Celebrates Female Service Center Employees

Valvoline is launching a social media campaign led by its female experts who are sharing automotive preventive maintenance tips to promote accessible vehicle care for all.

ASE Education Foundation, Goodguys Continue Partnership

Goodguys is one of many industry relationships the foundation has developed to help solve the technician shortage.

BorgWarner Announces Plan to Reduce Supply Chain Emissions

A partnership with Manufacture 2030 will support BorgWarner in reaching its Scope 3 emissions reduction goal.

Mevotech Releases 237 New Chassis, Control Arm, Wheel End Parts

The release boosts coverage for domestic and import passenger vehicles, pickup trucks, SUVs and EVs up to model year 2023.