"Insanity" has been jokingly defined as "doing the same thing repeatedly and expecting different results", but that perfectly describes simple stupidity.
For those suffering from TLDR syndrome: Frank Kurtis of Indy-car and midget fame built some wonderful factory hot-rod sports cars too.
https://www.conceptcarz.com/vehicle/z12458/Kurtis-Kraft-500S.aspx
https://silodrome.com/kurtis-500kk-car/
Good memory.
I snagged a couple more fairly recently, 'cause as you illustrate so well here, the thing has lines that just beg to be something even cooler.
Started eons ago.
Chopped AMT Victoria on Revell fenders, body height corrected:
Chopped, channeled 2-door sedan w/ tracknose, Offy power:
Chopped, channeled, zeed-frame tub with '34 grille shell:
What makes you think no one remembers?
Most likely all the geezer hardcore guys remember, and anyone who knows much about the history of road racing in the US.
Max Balchowsky's "Old Yeller" homebuilt specials were another series of earlier hot-rod road-race cars that kicked Euro sports cars butts...built from junk, Buick nailhead powered.
https://justacarguy.blogspot.com/2010/08/max-balchowsky-creator-of-old-yaller.html
https://www.oldyeller2.com/
One of the most interesting threads I've come across in some time. Your mileage may vary.
https://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/threads/hot-rod-sports-cars.956823/