What does it take for a paint scheme—just colors and lines on sheet metal—to make even Dale Earnhardt Jr. stop, smile, and nod in appreciation?

Dale Earnhardt entered NASCAR in 1979 with little money, a reputation for being harsh, and the opportunity to drive Rod Osterlund’s No. 2 car. He won Rookie of the Year that season and recorded his first Cup Series victory at Bristol. This was followed by a NASCAR championship in 1980. He was a fearless, relentless driver who elevated the No. 2 car to a representation of perseverance, and this was the start of his eternal NASCAR legacy.

That automobile represented the start of Earnhardt’s legacy, not just a part of it. In addition to racing, the blue-and-yellow Monte Carlo blasted onto the field, alerting the other competitors of the impending arrival of the Intimidator. That memory was revived more than forty years later—not by his son’s team or a sentimental Earnhardt company, but by a competing organization that had no ulterior motive other than respect.

NASCAR Throwback Sparks Emotional Response

Austin Cindric and Team Penske launched their homage to Dale Earnhardt’s 1980 No. 2 car. Fans were deeply moved by the blue-and-yellow scheme, which was more than just a sentimental nod—it was a resuscitation of one of NASCAR’s most memorable eras. But Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s response was the most notable. He was grateful for the paint work and the way it brought his father’s memory into the present in a touching post on X. “It means a lot to our family and the few team members still here with us,” he wrote. The throwback then transformed from a hip homage to something classic.

In addition to painting a Gen 7 Ford Mustang in vintage hues, Team Penske created the ideal time capsule. The way the idea translated to contemporary bodywork astounded fans. Dale Earnhardt was a hungry, untested young man pursuing a goal before he became “The Intimidator.” He went from being an up-and-coming driver to a champion in 1980 while racing in the No. 2 for Rod Osterlund Racing. Earnhardt shocked everyone by earning his first—and only—championship with the team in 1980 after winning Rookie of the Year in 1979. It was a tough, blue-collar run that laid the groundwork for one of the most legendary motorsport careers.

The fact that Roger Penske, an owner with no official connection to Dale Earnhardt, gave this tribute further heightens its impact. Penske’s choice to carry on another legend’s legacy is evidence of the mutual respect that goes beyond rivalry in a sport where teams frequently operate in isolation. It has nothing to do with sponsorships or points but with the pure intent of celebrating the legacy of NASCAR’s legendary driver. Even Dale Jr. was unable to ignore that.

Important to note that although Dale Earnhardt never raced for Roger Penske, the veteran owner has his race car in his collection. The car in discussion here is the 1995 IROC Dodge that Earnhardt drove at Michigan International Speedway. And this gesture by the veteran team owner goes to show the respect and admiration he shares for the 7-time champion.

Fans shared their responses on social media when the throwback scheme was implemented, with many expressing genuine amazement at how effectively the vintage appearance translated to contemporary machinery. One fan on X commented, “I’m shocked how well this paint scheme transferred to the Gen 7. Arguably one of the best throwback schemes we’ve ever had. Too bad it’s only gonna be out there for one race!” The comment referred to how well the blue-and-yellow livery from the 1980s fit the aerodynamic body of the modern Next Gen car, something that not all throwbacks can do.

Another fan added, “I love that they even did the number right. This is my favorite paint scheme this weekend.” That response was a clear indication of Team Penske’s meticulous attention to detail in emulating the typeface and positioning of the iconic No. 2, exactly as it was seen on Dale Earnhardt’s Osterlund Racing car in 1980. Although it’s a minor design decision, it has significant symbolic meaning for devoted followers who connect that look to the start of Dale Earnhardt’s illustrious career. It was authentic, precise, and respectful. And that’s why it resonated so strongly with fans who recall the story’s original beginning, not only Dale Earnhardt Jr.

There are many tributes during NASCAR’s Throwback Weekend each year. Some are enjoyable. Some are striking. However, few were as soul-stirring as this one. This was a preservation of NASCAR’s history, not merely a paint job. It brought the ages together. Younger fans learned from it. It provided a unique emotional reward to devoted fans. Above all, it served as a reminder that certain events in racing history are not supposed to be forgotten. They are supposed to feel relieved.

NASCAR’s 2025 Throwback Weekend Showcases the Sport’s Living Legacy

In addition to featuring vintage paint, the 2025 NASCAR Throwback Weekend brought back the legends that helped to define the sport. Numerous schemes contributed depth and history around the field, but Austin Cindric’s Dale Earnhardt tribute grabbed center stage. Richard Petty, also known as the “King,” has driven the No. 43 car in 1,125 of the more than 2,000 NASCAR Cup Series races.

Driving the Legacy Motor Club’s No. 43, Erik Jones honored John Andretti’s 1998 STP scheme. In order to maintain the Petty legacy visible on the course, the deep blue and red scheme paid tribute to Andretti’s tenure with Petty Enterprises and his victory at Martinsville in 1999.

Speaking about celebrating the icons of the sport, Denny Hamlin and Joe Gibbs Racing will celebrate Hall of Famer Carl Edwards this weekend. The No. 11 Sports Clip car will be dropped in the red and black, depicting the Home Depot paint scheme on Edward’s race from the 2000s. For the most part, Edwards raced with Rousch Fenway Racing, but he concluded his NASCAR career with a three-year stint at JGR.

Joining the throwback weekend is the No. 24 Hendrick Motorsports team. William Byron and his team will honor HMS’s vice chairman Jeff Gordon with a 2009 Firestorm scheme on the Axalta #24 at Darlington. The Camaro ZL1 will be donning a shining silver paint with the iconic flames spreading from the front to the rear of the race car. Well, there’s a contest as well, and the fans decide who they think brought out the best scheme for the Darlington weekend.

When NASCAR asked them to select their favorite throwback, Kyle Larson’s No. 5 won because of its design, which struck a mix between legacy and sleek flair. Larson was paying tribute to Terry Labonte, and the No. 5 car had the most unique paint scheme that would catch everyone’s eye. While there has been chatter about the relevancy of the throwback tradition, fans seem to enjoy this special occasion.