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Slot car racing used to be
a big deal back before battery-powered radio control cars became inexpensive and
readily available. Many hobby shops, including one I used to frequent in Laurel,
Maryland, had slot car tracks set up for patrons to use. I think we paid something
like a dollar for half an hour. You could either bring your own car, or rent one
from the hobby shop. As with any activity, certain stereotypes are created and stick
with slot car racers and their creations. This set of comics from the
September/October 1963 edition
of American Modeler magazine documents some of those things.
Mad Modelers' Slot Racer
 Slingshot Dragster - Designed to shoot itself
across finish line!
Cut-Em-Off-At-The-Pass Special - Great for 90° intersections. Four entry
fees required.
A Real Dog - Slowest car on the track.
Radio Controlled "Sure-Winner"
Designed to lay its own track across existing roadways.
Saw Tooth Wonder
Registers 11 laps when passing electric lap counter - trailer, for real lazy
drivers - adds 5 more laps. For pin-actuated lap counters try the Multi-Pinned Wonder
Four-Pinned Stopper - Once you take the lead it's guaranteed to prevent anyone
from passing.
Spin-Proof Sport
With center-mounted guide pin it never spins out.
What-Zit Car - Doesn't run, but keeps everybody guessing.
Giant Pin Car - For top efficiency entire vehicle is shaped like a guide pin.
Posted June 9, 2023
(updated from original post
on 7/11/2015)
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