The folks at Loanmart.com have put together this infographic explaining the anatomy of a stock car, what race car parts are needed and what do they do.
The stock car used in NASCAR racing is so much more than your average sedan! It is custom built by each race team, with the ultimate goal of getting the most out of their vehicle while still meeting the specifications required by NASCAR.
Race Car Parts: The Frame, Engine & Tires
- The Roll Cage
The part of the frame with the thickest tubing. It is designed to keep the driver safe in any type of accident. - The Front Clip
Made of thinner material than the roll cage. It is designed to collapse on impact, and push the engine out of the bottom of the car to avoid the driver completely. - The Firewall
A metal panel placed in the frame that separates the driver’s compartment from the engine compartment. - The Rear Clip
Also designed to be collapsible and absorbs the most of it on the event of an accident. - 30 Templates
NASCAR has designed 30 different templates that determine the shape of the body of the car. - Reduce Drag
One of the main goals in body design is to reduce drag. Super speedway stock cars have restrictor plates that reduce engine horsepower from 750 HP to 450 HP. - 450 HP Performance
The body is mounted forward on the frame, the sides and fenders are less contoured. The grill opening is tested thoroughly in a wind tunnel. - Engine Regulations
NASCAR engines have to produce a vast amount of power, up to 750 HP steadily for 3.5 – 4.5 hours without turbochargers, superchargers and the like. - Tire Regulations
NASCAR tires have to remain stable of very high temperature and speeds. provide unparalleled traction and be changeable in 12 to 14 seconds!
