How did Drag racing gets its name?

Answer 1

In the 1950's and 60's, cars were often modified by their owners to achieve a one off "custom" look. These cars were called "HOTRODS" Their were suspension, driveline, body and engine modifications to make each vehicle unique. One popular modification was called "dropping" or lowering the suspension. This involved changing or modifying the springs, and made the car very low to the ground. The engines were also tweaked to produce a lot more horsepower than stock. As these vehicles cruised the streets, owners would often see each other. Sometimes there was a local hang out where these people and their cars would gather. As people talked and things progressed, it was only natural that owners would want to settle which car was best or quickest. Street racing was born. Cars would accelerate away from a green light at maximum throttle. The car that crossed the next light first was the winner. When these lowered cars took off, the massive power would make the back of the car squat causing the bumper to drag on the ground for the first few feet. As this type of racing continued, the term "drag" racing was born because of all those bumpers dragging on the pavement.

Answer 2

Just a guess but, from racing from stop light, to stop light, on the main drag.