Glossary

Refers to the slope of the racetrack, usually on the curve, from the inside of the track to the outside wall. Banking helps the cars to "stick" to the track at high speeds. Generally, the higher degree of banking a track has, the faster the cars can go into the corners.

Downward pressure exerted on the car as it cuts through the air. Downforce helps the car to hug the track. The spoiler is one part of a NASCAR race car that helps to create downforce.

Occurs when two or more cars run nearly nose-totail so that the lead car displaces the air, creating a vacuum between it and the second car. When this occurs, the lead car actually pulls the second car. Drafting can often be seen on the superspeedways such as Daytona and Talladega.

Term used in measurement of engine power. One horsepower is equivalent to the power it takes to move 33,000 lbs. over one foot in one minute. Nextel Cup engines generally produce over 700 horsepower, while street cars generally run in the 200-horsepower range.

Road within the track where pit crews line up during the race. Each team is assigned a "pit box" where the car may be worked on or gassed up during the race. Only seven members of the crew may go over the pit road wall to work on the car during the race.

Tires that have been used at least once, but are saved for more racing.

Brand new tires that still have the factory stickers on them.

A thin, flat, metal plate with four small holes that is used to restrict horsepower. The holes in the plate restrict airflow from the car's carburetor to the engine, thereby reducing horsepower and speed. Restrictor plates are currently used at Daytona and Talladega.

Not an actual lane, but a designated place at the track where the race winner takes his car after the race to be congratulated, accept his prizes, pose for pictures, and celebrate with the team.