Hot Rod

Hot Rod

Hot rods are typically American cars with large engines modified for linear speed. The origin of the term "hot rod" is unclear. One explanation is that the term is a contraction of "hot roadster," meaning a roadster that was modified for speed. Another possible origin includes modifications to or replacement of the camshaft(s), sometimes known as a "stick" or "rod". A camshaft designed to produce more power is sometimes called a "hot stick" or a "hot rod". Roadsters were the cars of choice because they were light. The term became commonplace in the 1930s or 1940s as the name of a car that had been "hopped up" by modifying the engine in various ways to achieve higher performance.

The term can also apply to other items that are "suped up" for a particular purpose, such as "hot-rodded amplifier".

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Famous quotes containing the words hot and/or rod:

    Too often when you thought you’d be showered with confetti
    What they flung at you was a plate of hot spaghetti
    You’ve put your fancy clothes and flashy gems in hock
    Yet you pause before your father’s door afraid to knock
    John Ashbery (b. 1927)

    Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child; but the rod of correction shall drive it far from him.
    Bible: Hebrew Proverbs 22:15.