How NASCAR will be different in 2013

Fans always have considered it the most exciting sport, but even casual watchers should notice some differences this year when NASCAR kicks off its 2013 season Feb. 24 with the Daytona 500.

Some drivers have changed cars, of course, as they always do. But this year marks a real change, one that could have some bearing on competition. The change, of course, has to do with the cars. Specifically, the sport has ditched the so-called “Car for Tomorrow” for a new look – codenamed Generation 6.

What will this mean? The new cars won’t all look so boxy and alike. Even novice fans will be able to see the differences between the Fords, Toyotas and Chevys on the tracks this season. The cars also are now 150 pounds lighter. The big question now is, how will the changes affect performance? Will the new cars make for more passing and side-by-side racing?

Some fans have complained that races had become boring because of a lack of passing. Tire and gasoline strategy had overtaken raw speed as factors in determining the outcome of races. The new cars could shake all that up.

Other changes

Here are some other changes fans can look for this season:

• Qualifying: Since 2005, the top 35 teams in Sprint Cup point standings have made every race regardless of whether they ran a top lap during qualifying. In fact, they didn’t even have to run a lap. Now the top 36 cars will qualify for a particular race depending on their speeds during qualifying runs. Six other spots will be granted based on season standings and the final spot goes to a former champion who doesn’t make it any other way.
• Testing: Drivers will again be allowed to test cars on circuit tracks, although the number of testing sessions will be limited according to team ownership.

Still the same

Some things about NASCAR won’t change. The best drivers, Jimmy Johnson, Tony Stewart, Kyle Busch and defending champion Brad Kesolowski, among others, will be favored to take the championship. Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s every move will be scrutinized. Danica Patrick will get a ton of attention, especially now that she’s announced her divorce and subsequent relationship with fellow driver Ricky Stenhouse Jr., not to mention her driving exploits – winning the pole for the Daytona 500.

Source: AutoInsurance