They say you never truly realize how great things were until they’re not around anymore, and that’s likely a truth that a whole generation of hot rodders that grew up in the 1950’s and 60’s can attest to wholeheartedly. For then, the vivid memories of an entirely different world and sport remain, while a young generation will never fully grip what they missed out on.

Fortunately, through the ingenious inception of the Cacklefest twelve years ago at the California Hot Rod Reunion, gearheads young and old can still witness at least a small reminder of days gone by to whet the appetite, even if it no longer involves “borrowing” your fathers old Plymouth and heading out to “The Beach” to watch more than a hundred AA/FD’s battle it out.

At the Houston Autorama last fall, a four-car Cacklefest was planned as one of the evenings marquee attractions (in addition to a metal-twisting exhibition by the Bigfoot monster truck) featuring some the of the classic front engine machines in all their restored like-new glory. Although we don’t have a positive identification on all four of these cars, they’re believed to be the famous Gizzle Hopper, The Rat Patrol, the Scorpion V, and The Pony.

The crew at Gearhead Flicks, utilizing some excellent equipment and camera work, captured some of the most incredible Cacklefest footage we’ve ever seen, with the nitro-fueled flames dancing to a mesmerizing melody as they run the tanks dry. Be sure to heck this one out, and in spite of the warning, DO NOT watch your volume. As a matter of fact, turn it up.