The term 'Ramblin' Wreck' has been used to refer to students and alumni of Georgia Tech much longer than the eponymous car. The expression has its origins in the late 19th century and was used originally to refer to the makeshift motorized vehicles constructed by Georgia Tech engineers employed in projects in the jungles of South America. The Wrecks were constructed from whatever the engineers could find—mostly old tractor and automotive parts—and were kept running by the engineers' ingenuity and creativity. Other workers in the area began to refer to these vehicles and the men who drove them as 'Rambling Wrecks from Georgia Tech.'

I'm a Ramblin' Wreck from Georgia Tech, and a hell of an Engineer
A Helluva, Helluva, Helluva, Helluva, Helluva Engineer
Like all the jolly good fellows, I drink my whiskey clear.
I'm a Ramblin' Wreck from Georgia Tech and a hell of an Engineer

Oh, if I had a daughter, sir, I'd dress her in white and gold,
And put her on the campus To cheer the brave and bold.
But if I had a son, sir, I'll tell you what he'd do--
He'd yell: 'To Hell with Georgia!' Like his daddy used to do.

Oh, I wish I had a barrel of rum, and Sugar three thousand pounds
A college bell to put it in, And a clapper to stir it round.
I'd drink to all the good fellows, who come from far and near.
I'm a Ramblin', Gamblin', Hell of an Engineer!