Hirohata Merc
| Hirohata Merc | |
|---|---|
The Merc on display at the NHRA Museum in 2007 | |
| Overview | |
| Manufacturer | Barris Customs |
| Production | 1953 |
| Designer | George and Sam Barris |
| Body and chassis | |
| Body style | Club Coupe |
| Layout | Front Engine, RWD |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | Heavily Modified 255 cu in (4,184 cc) Mercury flathead engine |
| Power output | 400 hp (298 kW) @ 3,600 rpm 310 lb⋅ft (420 N⋅m) @ 2,000 rpm |
| Transmission | 3-speed Auto |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 2,997.2 mm (118 in) |
| Length | 4,877 mm (192.0 in) |
| Width | 1,953.3 mm (76.9 in) |
| Height | 1,572.3 mm (61.9 in) |
| Curb weight | 3,175 lb (1,440 kg) |
The Hirohata Merc is a 1950s lead sled custom car, often called "the most famous custom of the classic era". Setting a style and an attitude, it had a "momentous effect" on custom car builders, appeared in several magazines at the time, and has reappeared numerous times since, earning an honorable mention on Rod & Custom's "Twenty Best of All Time" list in 1991. The impact may be measured by the fact that, after more than fifty years and numerous owners, it is still known as "the Hirohata Merc".