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?
