Part I: Turbonique Roll Call

Gone are the “Ozark Mule,” the “Sizzler,” and the “Black Widow,” all of which started life as machines destined to be driven on public streets by well-to-do citizens. From the factory, they had options. Different types of engines and transmissions and vinyl and trim. The ponycar, the hot-shot and the commuter special. They had names like Mustang, Chevelle and Beetle. Some were sportier, others more docile. But in the end, none of that really mattered—their pasts and futures were simply wiped blank by the hellacious propulsion spurred by Turbonique.

For as long as I can remember, there has always been an air of mystery surrounding Turbonique. A number of great articles have been written and threads started on the subject, but it seems the Florida-based company has slipped back into obscurity as of late. At first, I figured this may be for the best. Maybe everything there is to know about these zany, chemical-fueled speed enhancers had already been written, photographed or forgotten. Probable? Yes. But that’s not how this one’s going to end. Not by a long shot.

Back in the mid-’60s, Turbonique offered a vast lineup of products ranging from superchargers to complete bolt-on drag axles capable of producing hundreds of horsepower at 60,000+rpm. You could send them $1 and they’d send you a catalog. Throw them $5 and you’d get an informational film, and for $2 more, you’d get a record with all the sounds. To refresh your memory, I’ve included some clips below. (Their original 8mm was in color, but I don’t have a copy on hand.)

Wait! Before you kick off your weekend with some drag strip pyrotechnics, I’d like to know something: Who out there currently owns one of these Turbonique products? Who has owned one? And who was fortunate enough to have seen one run back in the ’60s? With any luck, we’ll combine the information with the full history and a few more critical elements that are in the works for Part II. Until then, enjoy.

—Joey Ukrop

Lead Photo of TV Tommy Ivo and Capt. Jack McClure’s Turbonique Kart, courtesy of the H.A.M.B.