In this episode of Aussie Garage, we visit SSAR — South Street Auto Repairs to check out one of Australia’s most recognisable burnout cars: the legendary 1971 Holden HG Panel Van known as VANTSY.
Jeremy takes us through the history of the van, its famous airbrushed artwork, its tough burnout setup and the work completed to bring it back mechanically and electrically.
A Legendary Australian Panel Van
VANTASY is more than just a burnout car. It is a well-known part of Australia’s panel van and custom car history.
Australian panel vans became hugely popular during the 1970s and 1980s, with owners adding custom paint, murals, detailed interiors and high-performance engines.
VANTASY continues that tradition with its unmistakable artwork and aggressive burnout setup.
The artwork featured on the van is shown for automotive history and educational purposes. It reflects a particular era of Australian custom car styling and is not intended to offend or promote inappropriate content.
Blown Small Block Chevy Power
Under the bonnet is a blown small block Chevy running on methanol, built to make serious power and destroy tyres.
The engine is backed by a tough Powerglide transmission and a Ford 9-inch differential.
This is a proven combination for burnout competition, providing strong power, simple gear changes and reliable wheel speed.
Jeremy explains that building a burnout car is not only about horsepower. The engine must also survive high RPM, extreme heat and limited airflow while the car is surrounded by tyre smoke.
Methanol Burnout Engine Setup
Methanol is commonly used in high-powered burnout and racing engines because it offers strong cooling properties and resistance to detonation.
However, methanol engines require careful tuning and regular maintenance.
The fuel system must supply a much greater volume than a petrol setup. Methanol can also contaminate engine oil and absorb moisture, making frequent inspections and oil changes important.
Oil Control and Engine Reliability
Oil control is one of the biggest challenges in a burnout car.
As the car changes direction, oil can move away from the pickup inside the sump. Even a short drop in oil pressure at high RPM can cause serious engine damage.
A correctly designed sump, effective baffling and regular oil checks help protect the engine.
Cooling is also critical. Burnout cars operate at high RPM while moving slowly, so there is very little natural airflow through the radiator.
The entire cooling system must be designed to work under extreme conditions.
Diff Gearing and Burnout Performance
Differential gearing has a major effect on how a burnout car performs.
The correct ratio must suit the engine’s power, tyre size, transmission and desired wheel speed.
A shorter ratio can help the engine reach its power range quickly, while a taller ratio may provide more wheel speed. The combination must allow the driver to maintain RPM without overstressing the engine.
Burnout Car Safety
Burnout cars combine high horsepower, spinning tyres, extreme heat and reduced visibility.
Important safety equipment may include:
- Roll cage
- Racing harnesses
- Fixed-back competition seat
- Fire extinguisher or suppression system
- Electrical isolation switch
- Fuel shut-off system
- Tailshaft loop
- Driver helmet and safety clothing
Safety requirements vary between events, so owners should always check the current rules before competing.
Inside the SSAR Workshop
While visiting SSAR, we also looked around the workshop and checked out several impressive builds.
The workshop included tough Holden projects, street cruisers, burnout cars, LS engines, Holden 355 strokers and a Hemi build.
It was a great example of the variety found in Australian performance workshops, from classic V8 builds to modern engine conversions.
Is VANTASY Australia’s Most Iconic Burnout Van?
VANTASY combines Australian panel van history with modern burnout performance.
Its 1971 HG Panel Van body, famous artwork and blown methanol small block Chevy make it instantly recognisable.
There have been many legendary burnout cars in Australia, but few have the same history, appearance and personality as VANTASY.
Let us know in the comments:
Is VANTASY one of the most iconic panel vans in Australian burnout history?
Thanks to SSAR
A massive thank you to Jeremy and the team at SSAR — South Street Auto Repairs for welcoming Aussie Garage into the workshop and giving us the opportunity to get up close with VANTASY.
Make sure you check out SSAR and support the businesses helping to build and preserve Australian automotive culture.
Show Us Your Ride
Do you own a vintage, classic, custom or muscle car with an interesting story?
Aussie Garage is looking for vehicles and owners to feature.
Those based in Western Australia can contact us about arranging an interview. We are also collecting contacts from other parts of Australia for future filming trips.
Watch the full episode, subscribe to Aussie Garage and share the video with another automotive enthusiast.
We’ll see you in the garage.
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