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True 'stock' cars — modified for safety.
Note roll bar and headlight covers, but door and hood are bound shut.
Convertibles race in NASCAR for two seasons.
Manufacturers in the sport include, Ford, Chevrolet, Dodge, Pontiac, Oldsmobile, Plymouth, Mercury, Hudson, Buick, Chrysler, Porsche, Aston Martin, Austin Healey, MG, Citroën, Alpha-Romeo and Triumph.
(Photo Credit: Richard Petty 1959 Daytona 500 / RacingOne Multimedia)
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Factory car’s headlights still present, but covered.
Driver’s seat evolves to a single-seat designed to protect the driver.
Windshield is still stock windshield.
(Photo Credit: Cale Yarborough 1968 Daytona 500 / RacingOne Multimedia)
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High wing added to provide rear down force, improving handling.
Internal roll cage is more obvious.
Engines reach maximum of 7,000 RPM.
(Photo Credit: Bobby Isaac 1971 Daytona 500 / RacingOne Multimedia)
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Major safety enhancements include window net and windshield made of Lexan.
Debut of decals vs. hand-painted numbers.
Hood pins used to prevent the hood from blowing open at high speed.
Sponsor 'paint schemes' become more creative.
(Photo Credit: Bill Elliott 1987 Daytona 500 / RacingOne Multimedia)
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Roof flaps help keep cars from going airborne in reverse spins.
Spoiler improves aerodynamics.
Windshield “tear offs" provide clear driver view.
Cars fully 'wrapped' with special vinyl for decals, numbers and headlights.
(Photo Credit: Dale Earnhardt 1998 Daytona 500 / RacingOne Multimedia)
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Adjustable front splitter and rear wing improve aerodynamics and stability.
HANS device keeps driver’s head and neck restrained, with carbon seat providing extra safety.
Engine maximum nearly 10,000 RPM.
Four manufacturers in the top three series: Chevrolet, Ford, Dodge and Toyota.
(Photo Credit: Tony Stewart 2008 Daytona testing / Sam Greenwood / Getty Images for NASCAR)
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