It can get somewhat chilly in the twilight of Michigan summers, but the days are strong and sunny in a way that makes one appreciate the cusp of the seasons. If you’re a drag racer, this is the perfect time for good air and good rays for peak racing fun. It’s these conditions shaping the post-Labor Day weekend that make the Pure Stock Muscle Car Drag Race (PSMCDR) a seminal car show for muscle enthusiasts.
Now in its 31st year, PSMCDR continues to draw both drivers and spectators to the little hamlet of Stanton for tire-smoking fun. With participants this year from as far as Maine and Florida, PSMCDR has developed into a brother/sisterhood of sorts, with racers interested in learning how to maximize the performance of their cars while learning about the intricacies of Brand X driven by competitors. You could say that all concerned parties have been brought up right, learning about their favorite brands while learning about others; fail to learn and you will likely find yourself going slower.
Approximately 106 cars—all in car show condition—went racing during the September 13, 2025 event. Would you believe almost 20 percent of the racers drove Buicks? And there were two 1971 AMC Hornet SC/360s present! In fact, in an interesting twist, there were more Cougars than Mustangs—how does that happen? At the PSMCDR, you never know what’s going to show up, yet you have an idea because the event is so enjoyable that racers keep on coming back.
If you’ve read past coverage of the PSMCDR, you know I work the event, so photography opportunities are slim. Hopefully the above and below images will give you an idea of the good things that fall under the Michigan sun.
Visit www.psmcdr.com to keep abreast of the dates for 2026.
