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THE AUTO BUILDER
Featured
Remembering Alex Xydias
The automotive world lost a true legend with the passing of Alex Xydias in 2024. Born in 1922, Xydias was not just a figure in hot rodding; he was a driving force whose innovations and passion forever changed the landscape of the industry. His life was a journey of relentless pursuit—of speed, of innovation, and of community.
POWER PICKUP!
To say Tom Long has an interest in cars is to say the Pope has an interest in religion. Long has always been a “car guy,” just like the rest of us. Having owned several specialty vehicles over the years, he still has a ’32 Ford sedan street rod that has seen many miles from coast to coast. But Long had a real urge to own something with the extra shot of adrenaline that comes from potent power under the hood. As his son Matt’s interest in cars grew, Long decided a project that involved both father and son would be just the ticket.
’63 FORD FASTBACK
“Total Performance” is what the Ford Motor Company called its corporate racing program back in the early ’60s, and it was a great way to show the buying public how strong and well engineered the automaker’s vehicles were. In a bold and blatant fashion, Ford was heavily involved in competition—in a big way.
Spotlighter
Remembering George Poteet
Hot Rod Hero and Land Speed Legend
George Poteet, a true icon in the world of hot rodding and land speed racing, has left us, but his legacy blazes on like a nitro-fueled firestorm. Poteet wasn’t just another car guy; he was “The Car Guy,” a legend who lived life a quarter-mile at a time and made history on the salt flats. Let’s dive into the life of a man who put the pedal to the metal and never looked back.
Author
The AutoBuilder Staff
Photography by Scott Killeen
From Garage Guru to Hot Rod Hero
Born in 1947 in Memphis, Tennessee, George Poteet was destined for greatness. As a kid, he spent his days covered in grease, tinkering with engines in his dad’s garage. That early love affair with cars set the stage for what would become a lifelong obsession with speed and style.
Poteet didn’t just admire hot rods; he built them, drove them, and pushed them to their limits. His collection of custom cars wasn’t just impressive—it was legendary. Each ride was a testament to his unparalleled vision and engineering skill. The guy had an eye for detail that was second to none.
From meticulously restored classics to one-of-a-kind custom builds, Poteet’s garage was a treasure trove of automotive masterpieces. He was known for his innovative designs and his ability to transform ordinary vehicles into extraordinary machines. Among his notable creations was the “Blowfish,” a 1969 Plymouth Barracuda that became a record-breaking land speed racer. Poteet’s cars were not just about aesthetics; they were built for performance, often featuring cutting-edge technology and engineering marvels that set new standards in the hot rodding community.
Poteet’s dedication to car building extended beyond his personal collection. He collaborated with some of the best builders and fabricators in the industry, always pushing the envelope of what was possible. His projects were often featured in top automotive magazines, showcasing his commitment to craftsmanship and his relentless pursuit of automotive excellence.
The Blowfish and Beyond
If you know anything about George Poteet, you know about the “Blowfish.” This 1969 Plymouth Barracuda wasn’t just another pretty face; it was a beast. Poteet took this classic muscle car and turned it into a record-breaking land speed racer. The Blowfish became a symbol of his relentless pursuit of perfection and performance.
But the Blowfish was just one chapter in Poteet’s epic saga. He had a knack for turning metal and rubber into magic, and his creations regularly graced the covers of hot rodding magazines. Each car was a masterpiece, a rolling tribute to the art of speed.
King Of The Salt Flats
George Poteet’s name is synonymous with Bonneville. The Bonneville Salt Flats are where legends are made, and Poteet was the undisputed king. Year after year, he pushed the envelope, setting records and raising the bar for land speed racing.
In 2020, at the age of 72, Poteet achieved a staggering top speed of 470.015 mph in his Speed Demon streamliner, averaging this speed over two runs. The Speed Demon, a 32-foot-long golden streak powered by a twin-turbocharged 556-cubic-inch Chevy big-block, became the fastest piston-driven vehicle in the world under his command. Poteet’s indomitable spirit shone through, even when the car caught fire on a previous run. Unfazed, he continued to chase speed, demonstrating a resilience that inspired everyone around him.
Giving Back And Paying It Forward
Poteet wasn’t just about going fast; he was also about giving back. His philanthropic efforts were as impressive as his car collection. He supported automotive museums, educational programs, and charity events, ensuring that the legacy of hot rodding would endure.
He also took the time to mentor young gearheads, sharing his wealth of knowledge and passion for cars. Poteet’s generosity and willingness to help others made him a beloved figure in the community.
The Legacy Lives On
George Poteet’s passing marks the end of an era, but his influence will be felt for generations to come. His life was a masterclass in dedication, innovation, and pure, unadulterated passion for cars. As the tributes pour in, it’s clear that Poteet wasn’t just a legend; he was a hero to anyone who’s ever felt the thrill of the open road.
Let’s raise a glass to George Poteet—a man who embraced life in the fast lane and made a lasting impact on hot rodding and land speed racing. His legacy roars like an engine, reminding us all to pursue our dreams with the same fiery determination he brought to every endeavor.
