How Mopar went from antifreeze to drag racing

Mopar has been part of Chrysler’s DNA since 1937, when the name was first used as a contraction of “Motor Parts.” What began as a line of antifreeze soon grew into Chrysler’s official brand for parts, service, and performance. Over the decades, Mopar has evolved into more than just a catalog of replacement parts — it has become a badge of performance and a rallying point for car culture.

Mopar’s roots in performance history

Image Credit: Dodge Garage

The 1960s and 1970s were Mopar’s defining years. Chrysler muscle cars like the Dodge Charger, Plymouth Barracuda, and Road Runner became drag strip legends, often backed by Mopar parts and factory-supported race programs. Mopar offered crate engines, racing camshafts, and even complete drag packages such as the Super Stock Darts and Barracudas. These factory-built racers cemented Mopar as more than a service brand — it was a direct line to speed. Mopar gatherings and events from that era helped build the loyal community that still thrives today.

Mopar today under Stellantis

Image Credit: Jonathan Weiss / Shutterstock.com

Now part of Stellantis, Mopar remains the official service, parts, and accessories brand for Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram. While Stellantis develops new cars and technologies, Mopar provides the performance and personalization side — from warranty-backed crate engines to lift kits, wheels, and Uconnect add-ons. Mopar is also key in servicing EVs and hybrids, ensuring owners have access to genuine parts and certified upgrades. Though it doesn’t drive vehicle strategy, Mopar’s support role keeps the performance spirit alive across the Stellantis lineup.

Performance and customization in the modern era

Image Credit: Dodge Garage

For enthusiasts, Mopar continues to offer ways to make a vehicle their own. Dodge’s Challenger and Charger can be ordered with Mopar accessories, and crate engines like the 807-horsepower “Hellcrate Redeye” bring modern muscle to classic builds. Beyond raw horsepower, Mopar’s catalog includes suspension upgrades, styling packages, and restoration parts for classics. This focus on customization has kept Mopar relevant, with events like the annual Mopar Nationals proving the community’s loyalty runs as strong as ever.

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