Butch Leal's "Mr. 427" Thunderbolt is an iconic drag racing car that left an indelible mark on the history of American motorsports. Butch Leal, also known as the "California Flash," was a renowned drag racer who gained fame and respect in the 1960s and 1970s.

The car, a Ford Fairlane Thunderbolt, was specially modified by Leal and his team to compete in the highly competitive Super Stock class. The Thunderbolt was powered by a massive 427 cubic inch V8 engine, which was one of the most powerful engines available at the time. This engine, combined with the Thunderbolt's lightweight construction, gave it an impressive power-to-weight ratio, making it a formidable opponent on the drag strip.

Leal campaigned the "Mr. 427" Thunderbolt throughout the 1960s, competing in races across the country and earning numerous victories along the way. The car became famous for its distinctive appearance, with its sleek lines and bold graphics making it instantly recognizable to drag racing fans.

One of the most notable achievements of the "Mr. 427" Thunderbolt came in 1964 when Leal won the NHRA Winternationals in Pomona, California, in the Super Stock class. This victory solidified Leal's reputation as one of the top drag racers of his time and further cemented the Thunderbolt's place in drag racing history.

Throughout its racing career, the "Mr. 427" Thunderbolt underwent numerous modifications and updates to keep it competitive against evolving competition. Leal and his team were constantly pushing the limits of performance, fine-tuning every aspect of the car to extract every last ounce of power and speed.

Although Butch Leal eventually retired from active racing, the legacy of the "Mr. 427" Thunderbolt lives on as a symbol of innovation, skill, and success in the world of drag racing. The car remains a beloved icon among drag racing enthusiasts and continues to inspire new generations of racers to push the boundaries of speed and performance.