When
one mentions the term “Speed merchant”, the mind
immediately registers two things; one, it’s time for business,
and two, it’s happening quickly, very quickly. This Speed
Merchant does exactly that, it handles its business down the
drag strip in the best way it knows how, one lightning quick
quarter mile at a time. By Taariq "Shift" Samodien.
Photography by RaceMasteR J.
The Nissan Champ bakkie is a South African
legend that has served many fraternities well, its value
for money, loyalty and never say die attitude being its
outstanding qualities. Whether it is a fruit and veg broker
or a general electrician or plumber, it has served its
country well. However, it holds another legendary value
amongst the tarmac users of our fair country.
For the past two decades, South African racers have been
building championship winning dragsters using the Champ
as the base for their quarter mile demon. Louis Lima,
Richard Jordaan, Dana Jordaan amongst others were the
creators and pilots of some of SA’s most famous
Nissan Champ drag machines our country’s tracks
have ever seen, and are the very inspiration for all of
those making their own history right now.
Michael Kayser had a vision for his Champ Bakkie, and
that vision was simple, to get this Burgundy blown bandit
from the lights to the traps faster than anyone else;
The Speed merchant was born. His work of art started as
a work in progress, which he acquired off the Killarney
Racetrack as an existing drag car that needed a few changes
and a little TLC. Once in his possession, Michael immediately
set off on a mission to transform the Champ into his rendition
of the perfect drag car.
