This set of four shadow boxes is a scarce 1970 Ford-Autolite Dealership Promotional Display. Issued directly to Ford dealerships in 1970, these framed, 3D relief plaques commemorated the dominant motorsport victories of Ford-powered drivers using Autolite spark plugs and ignition parts during the late 1960s and 1970. This set was never displayed at the Ford dealership. The manager of the parts department in Longview, Washington absconded with them prior to being displayed and gave them to his eight year-old son for Christmas in 1970.
Each shadow box features a detailed, raised plastic/embossed model (made by Embosograph) of a legendary race car.
The 4 Cars in the Set
1. Al Unser – Johnny Lightning Special
Achievement: Winner of the 1970 Indianapolis 500.
Vehicle: Ford-powered George Bignotti / Vel’s Parnelli Jones Indy racer.
2. David Pearson – NASCAR Torino Cobra
Achievement: 1968 & 1969 NASCAR Grand National Champion.
Vehicle: Holman-Moody prepared Ford Torino Cobra.
3. Pete Robinson – "Tinker Toy" Top Fuel Dragster
Achievement: 1970 NHRA Summer-Nationals Top Fuel Winner.
Vehicle: Lightweight SOHC 427 Ford-powered dragster.
4. "Dyno Don" Nicholson – 427 SOHC Ford Maverick
Achievement: Car-Craft Magazine All-Star Pro Stock Pioneer.
Vehicle: Famous "Cammer" 427-powered Maverick drag racer.
Historical Context & Collector Value
Promotional Purpose: These were not sold to the general public in retail stores; they were sent to Ford, Lincoln-Mercury, and Autolite distributor service counters to line the walls and showcase Ford's motorsport dominance.