The Other Nova

I've always been fascinated by the Boy Racer phenomenon. Not so much the teens themselves but rather their cars.

I suppose it began in the States in the Fifties with the first dawn of the teenager and their love pf Hot Rods.

Hot Rods became a staple of popular culture there and influenced music, fashion, toys and models, art and films. Just look at the movie poster for the Giant Gila Monster!

Looking closer to home I have been admiring the vehicles of boy racers since the 80's.

I think what has always appealed to me is the fact that all the trim and fuss on most cars is stripped away from them tp create a minimalist look.

I'm not sure why boy racers do this. I assume its to create a non-branded brand by removing the makers' marks and any other lettering.

The cars themselves were always sort of low-slung boxy hatchbacks and as such only certain makes would make the cut.

The one that sticks in my mind is the Nova.

I can see it now with its darkened windows, low-suspension, fat exhaust and a body bereft of any lettering. They were also customised to create a road-hugging look.

Now I'm not condoning the racer culture, the rat runs, the fast driving or the meetings, 

Its the simplicity of the vehicles that appeal to me. I suppose its the last gasp of customising cars in the UK, which was once so popular.

I wonder if this type of custom car ever made it as a model or a die-cast toy?

Have you come across custom cars readers?