When you debut a new race car like Dragzine's Evil 8.5, you never know what to expect. However, in their debut outing in the NMCA Outlaw 8.5 class, the team was really pleased with the performance of their Vortech V-24 Xi-B supercharged small-block Fox-body. Built over a 2-year period, the 25.3 LX Mustang features a 427ci Vortech Supercharged Small-Block Chevy engine backed by an ATI Transmissions 2-speed and billet torque convertor, Holley EFI, Davis Profiler, and Mickey Thompson's tiny 26 x 8.5 tires.

With only 4 test passes, Evil 8.5 was able to qualify #3 with a 5.34 at 141 mph in some extremely hot weather conditions and a fairly greasy racetrack. They managed to run through to the semi-finals, where they were matched up against #1 qualifier George Raygoza, who had been running consistent 4.95-5.05 runs. Evil 8.5 was neck and neck with George until 200-feet, when a dash of wheel spin caused a quick loss of traction, giving Raygoza a 5.05 win to Evil 8.5's 5.21 at 144-mph.

The Dragzine team are excited about the future of Evil 8.5, and while they may have been humbled by the little tires, they are excited about all of the exciting opportunities she will present them in 2017 and beyond.