With fuel prices through the roof, and family budgets constrained, can one of hot rodding’s icons survive?

Superchargers have been around even before hot rods. They effectively increase an engine’s power—sometimes doubling it—with one single, magnificent-looking bolt-on. Even in 2008, this photo of our February 1980 issue is a good example of what pops into a gearhead’s noggin when the word “blower” is uttered. But are blowers doomed?

Back in February 1980, the world was in another oil crisis just like now. We thought we’d seen the last days of the muscle car—and blowers along with them. Yet today, they seem as popular as ever. But that appears to be changing. As recently as the summer of 2007, blowers were a hugely successful editorial topic at PHR. More recently, the picture looks less bright, as manufacturers look for ways to move excessive back inventories of product. Some companies are even employing rebates—so if you’re in the market for a blower, now is the time to buy.

Regardless of how it turns out, the big blower mounted on top will always remain an icon unique to American performance. As long as there is someone who wants to be the alpha dog on Main Street USA, the blower will survive!