Nascar Car Dimensions

The NASCAR car dimensions specified here is for the Car of Tomorrow (CoT) style. It is the one being used in the NASCAR Sprint Series.

The CoT Dimensions

The Car of Tomorrow is 206 in (5,232 mm) long, 78.5 in (1,994 mm) wide and 53 in (1,346 mm) high. The wheelbase measures 110 in (2,794 mm) and weighs 3,450 lb (1,565 kg). The following information shows how the CoT compares with the vehicles it represents.

The NASCAR Monte Carlo measures 200.7 in (5,098 mm) in length, 72.5 in (1,841 mm) wide and 51 in (1,295 mm) high. The wheelbase is 110 in (2,794 mm) and the weight is 3,400 lb (1,542 kg).

Compared with the NASCAR car dimensions, the Ford Fusion is 190.6 in (4,841 mm) long, 72.2 in (1,834 mm) wide and 56.9 in (1,445 mm) high. The wheelbase is 107.4 in (2,728 mm) and the weight is 3,101 lb (1,407 kg).

The Chevy Impala SS is 200.4 in (5,090 mm) long and is 72.9 in (1,852 mm) wide. The height is 58.7 in (1,491 mm) and the weight is 3,711 lb (1,683 kg). The wheelbase is 110.5 in (2,807 mm).

The Dodge Charger is 200.1 in (5,083 mm) long, 74.4 in (1,890 mm) wide and 58.2 in (1,478 mm) high. The wheelbase is 120 in (3,048 mm) and it weighs 3,820 lb (1,733 kg).

The Toyota Camry is 189.2 in (4,806 mm) long, 71.7 in (1,821 mm) wide and 57.9 in (1,471 mm) high. Comparing it to the NASCAR car dimensions, the wheelbase is less at 109.3 in (2,776 mm) and the weight is 3,263 lb (1,480 kg).

Design

The Car of Tomorrow came about after the fatal accident of Dale Earnhardt Sr. in the Daytona 500 in 2001. Compared with the older design, the CoT places more emphasis on safety. The driver’s seat has been relocated 4 inches over to the right.

At the same the roll cage has been put 3 inches to the back. The car itself is a couple of inches taller and 4 inches wider. Apart from the new NASCAR car dimensions, the crumple zones have been enlarged and on both sides of the vehicle.

Safety Features

The valence has been replaced with a splitter made of fiber fortified plastic. Located at the bottom front, it is used to generate downforce. The fuel capacity is less; from 22 gallons, it has been reduced to 17 ½ gallons. However, the fuel cell is now sturdier. The exhaust system has also been improved so the heat is not directed at the driver.

Other innovations include a detached wing and a windshield that is more erect. This is intended to create more drag. The radiator is under the front bumper. The purpose is to prevent overheating due to blocked grilles.

The bumper has also been redesigned. With its box like shape, it will take in more air and reduce the car’s speed.

The NASCAR car dimensions and specifications are subject to constant reviews. This means the features of the car style may be revised or altered.