About Rat Rods
Rat rods are styles of hot rods that imitate the custom cars of the '40s, '50s and '60s. Rat rods should not be confused with traditional hot rods which are restored accurately to the time period. Rat rods are unfinished, sometimes unattractive and built with only the necessities to be driven.
Other People Are Reading
-
History
-
In December 1972, the issue of Rod & Custom Magazine was devoted to the beater. The beater was a low-cost alternative to the more expensive and attractive custom car. The beater could be considered the forefather of rat rods.
There has been controversy over the origin of the term "rat rods." Some believe it first appeared in Hot Rod Magazine in an article about cars painted with primer. Although the term began as an insulting or derogatory word, modern owners of these cars have chosen to give it a positive meaning. The greaser, punk and rockabilly cultures are all noted to have influence over the practice of rat-rodding.
Function
-
Rat rods are created to loosely imitate or even exaggerate traditional early hot rods. They are built to be driven without much attention given to comfort or aesthetic appeal. Rat rods are restored only in the sense of function and are not meant to be shown off or taken to shows.
-
Features
-
Most rat rods have their fenders, hoods and bumpers removed. Body parts such as grills, tail lights and chopped tops are often switched between different makes and models. They are often built using spare parts or parts from a completely different car. Rat rods most always appear unfinished, most commonly seen with primer paint jobs. Rust is acceptable when it comes to rat rods and in some cases, even preferred. A beam axle is used as front suspension in most rat rods because of the look they create when fenders are removed. They also commonly feature air bag suspension making it easier for the car to be raised and lowered.
Benefits
-
Rat rods are much less expensive than traditional hot rods, especially when it comes to restoration costs. Maintenance on rat rods is much less stressful because there is no danger of damaging the exterior of the car. Dents, rust and scratches only add to the appeal of rat rods and are often encouraged and appreciated by their owners.
Warning
-
These cars have also become a symbol of nonconformity and are considered by some an act of rebellion against the custom car scene simply to own and drive one. Classic car enthusiasts also criticize rat rods as being nothing more than cheap imitations of traditional hot rods and have even been called anachronistic.
-
Resources
- Photo Credit Wikimedia Commons
