1928 Ford Dragula

Some vehicles in the automotive world transcend being mere machines on four wheels and become true cultural icons. The 1928 Ford Dragula is one of those rare examples. Now listed for $177,500 in Jacksonville, this legendary machine captures the imagination of classic car collectors everywhere. Let’s take a closer look at the fascinating story behind this one-of-a-kind hot rod.

The Origins of the 1928 Ford Dragula

Inspired by the iconic family car from The Munsters TV series, Dragula was originally based on a reimagined 1921 Ford T-Bucket. But it was legendary hot rod designer George Barris who took the concept to an entirely new level in 1966. Using the chassis from a 1928 Ford Model A, Barris laid the foundation for what would become an unforgettable piece of automotive art.

Transformed in Barris’s workshop, the vehicle took on a completely unique identity. A custom fiberglass body was built in the shape of a coffin, topped off with a striking chrome skull mounted on the front. This dramatic visual flair made Dragula instantly memorable, turning heads from the very first glance.

At its heart, Dragula originally featured Ford’s iconic Flathead V8 engine—a 3.6-liter powerhouse with 85 horsepower that had a strong presence in the 1930s and 1940s hot rod scene. Over time, Barris equipped Dragula with even more potent powerplants, including 289 and 302 cubic-inch Ford V8s, significantly boosting its performance.

This increase in horsepower made Dragula a sought-after competitor on the drag strip. The vehicle made appearances at legendary tracks like Lions Drag Strip and Irwindale Speedway, proving it was more than just a showpiece—it was a genuine race machine. With its bold design and upgraded engines, Dragula carved out its own place in the drag racing world and captured the hearts of hot rod fans everywhere.

Dragula’s fame wasn’t limited to the television screen. After its standout debut on The Munsters, it became a Hollywood favorite. The car reappeared in films such as The Munsters’ Scary Little Christmas (1995) and The Munsters’ Revenge (2002). In 1998, musician Rob Zombie paid tribute to its gothic mystique with his hit song “Dragula,” immortalizing the vehicle in rock music history.

This one-of-a-kind design also made headlines in 2007 when it sold at a Barrett-Jackson auction for $198,000, reaffirming its value and legendary status. Today, the custom Dragula version on display in Jacksonville—with its automatic transmission and eye-catching look—is waiting for a new owner.

Driving Dragula is not just about operating a car; it’s about stepping into a living piece of 1960s American pop culture. A rebellious symbol of hot rod history fused with classic elegance, the 1928 Ford Dragula continues to hold its place as an unforgettable chapter in the story of automotive innovation.