Erine Adams, creator of dwarf cars, at the Dwarf Car Museum in Maricopa. Photo credit: Marilyn Szabo

Driving the backroads of Maricopa in Pinal County, I saw a trailer with the painted words “Dwarf Car Museum.” How could I pass that up? I immediately headed down West Halfmoon Road and encountered a larger-than-life EXXON sign and an old garage. Inside the garage, I spotted a candy apple red car, chopped and dropped. It was something any hotrodder would be thrilled to showcase. However, this wasn’t just any car. It was a teeny cruiser that had all the bells whistles of a full-sized counterpart – but it just seemed like someone let the air out of it.

Then, Ernie Adams, the originator of the so-called dwarf car, walked up to the pint-sized vehicle. My mind was blown as he effortlessly folded himself into it. Ernie started building these unique cars in the mid 60s. The original dwarf car – Grandpa Dwarf – continues to run today.  

A collection of dwarf cruisers and the older race cars can be seen on display at the Dwarf Car Museum, located at 52954 West Halfmoon Road in Maricopa. Tours are free.