NASCAR is the primary sport for many fans when it comes to stock car racing. However, there are some huge differences when it comes to stock cars and NASCAR cars. A NASCAR car is a heavily modified beast designed to provide the maximum performance of the car for a long period of time during a race.
The anatomy of NASCAR introduces many kinds of components which are not used in regular cars but they are present in the sport. NASCAR cars are provided with a roll cage which is an essential component housing the entire assembly of the car and providing the drivers with safety in case of a crash or rollover.
NASCAR cars also do not have any flashy interiors and are barebones with only the necessary components required to race.
They have aerodynamic flaps which provide stability to the car and help it become aerodynamically efficient. Another major component is the windshield, which is specifically designed for high speeds, safety of the driver from debris and to not shatter like a normal car’s windshield in case of a wreck.
Reason for hole in NASCAR windshield
There are many rumors regarding the holes that can be seen in a NASCAR windshield. They are often confused to be vents or “air holes” for maximizing the air flow in the car. The real reason behind the windshield holes is much simpler.
It is to slip in tools and accessories for the drivers. NASCAR cars need to have the fastest changes possible in case of setup thus, instead of taking the whole car apart and reassembling it mechanics can simply use tools from these holes to make changes to the car.
One hole at the back windshield of the car is used to adjust the springs and the other hole is used to adjust the track rod, which in turn changes the behavior of the rear suspension.
Since a NASCAR car is stripped of all the useless and non-race oriented mechanisms, basic tasks like providing hydration or gloves to the driver are done via the hole in the side windshields. There has been no scientific argument which proves the effectiveness of these holes as air vents and they are merely used as a way to get by in the car.
Without these spaces, the mechanics would have to get the driver out and reassemble the car for even minor changes.
Also Read : What tires do they use in NASCAR?
FAQ's On NASCAR windshield
A. The airflow ducts are mounted in order to direct air towards drivers’ chest and legs.
A. NASCAR windshields are made out of Lexan.
A. NASCAR drivers do not need rear view mirrors, they have a special camera mounted on top of the car.
A. NASCAR cars use stickers to endorse their sponsors which in turn form the payout of the team and drivers.
A. NASCAR cars do not have a muffler.
