Amazing how things change!

[PKRWUD]

I hear what you're saying. It's true that the "stock car" aspect of it is gone, but it's still alot of fun, IMHO. All things being equal is a direct result of the different teams whining when another manufacturer appeared to have an advantage. The plan is to create good racing by having the cars fairly equal. The engine restrictions were fairly liberal, basically stating that it had to be a carbureted pushrod engine of no more than 360 cubic inches. Also, the block had to be a part that was available at you local dealership. These rules still hold true, but restrictions on some parts have been made. For example, the cfm limit on the carbs is 830cfm. The ones who got screwed, in my opinion, were the teams that went with Dodge this year. When Dodge decided to get back into NASCAR, the designed a new engine that would be exclusively used in NASCAR, although it could be purchased by anyone at their local Dodge dealer. It was a 360ci hemi, and fell within the rules as they then existed, but as soon as the Chevy and Ford teams found out, they protested, and NASCAR denied the engines use.

Perhaps they should change the name and omit the stock car reference, but other than that, it's great racing. I also love 1/4 mile racing, but I've found the knowledge I gained working for Bill alot more practical for everyday drivers than anything I learned in 1/4 mile racing. 1/4 milers are designed to run 1/4 mile, period. No turns, no downshifting, no concerns other than 1320 feet.

As far as Jim's remarks implying that those that watch NASCAR being under the impression that they are the same cars you could go buy at the dealership, I think that's silly as well. I'd say for every NASCAR fan who thinks they could go buy a Taurus just like Dale Jarrett drives, is a NHRA fan who thinks they could go buy a Mustang just like John Force drives. Not too many.

Take care,
-Chris