Mission Impossible is the movie series that pops first into our minds when we hear Tom Crusie. However, NASCAR fans were introduced to this superstar way before MI hit the big screens. NASCAR was influential for anyone growing up, and rising star Tom Cruise was no different. Before making a NASCAR-based film, Days of Thunder, Cruise tested a Busch Series car for Hendrick Motorsports at Daytona.

It was exactly on this day 37 years ago that the Hollywood Superstar, along with Paul Newman, ran laps at Daytona. NASCAR historian and writer shared a throwback post of the iconic moments via X. This is exactly when the seeds for the Days of Thunder movie were sown, as Tom Cruise was inspired by the real-life stories of NASCAR drivers and teams.

Tom Cruise’s test drive that ignited the spark for Days of Thunder

NASCARMAN on X shared a throwback post with an image of Tom Cruise from 1986. He wrote, “January 3, 1987: Tom Cruise and Paul Newman tested a Busch Series car for Hendrick Motorsports at Daytona. Newman made laps over 190 mph while Cruise got up to 178 mph before engine troubles.”

Paul Newman and Tom Cruise were popular at that time. Newman’s passion for auto racing ignited after his 1969 film ‘Winning’, and from there on he had a successful stint as a racer while managing his action career. He also holds the record for the oldest person to win the Rolex 24 Hours at Daytona. After the success of the ‘Top Gun’ and after working together on the ‘Colour of Money’, the two practiced laps together at the Daytona test in the Hendrick Motorsports car for the Busch Series.

For many outside of America, the movie Days of Thunder was their gateway into NASCAR and stock car racing. The movie was everything that the fans anticipated and much more. It is believed that Tom Cruise’s character was inspired by Tim Richmond, and ultimately, it ended up being a tribute to him. For those who had any reservations about connecting with NASCAR, this movie certainly broke all those barriers.

Read More: “It All Started With This”- Relive Hendrick Motorsports’ Humble NASCAR Beginning as Historic #5 Test Car Die-Casts Hit Production Line

Hendrick Motorsports certainly added a feather in their cap when Hollywood stars tested their cars at Daytona, but they are doing something special next season as they reach an important milestone.

Meanwhile, here’s what’s changing for Hendrick Motorsports in 2024

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The 2024 NASCAR Cup Series is fast approaching, and this marks an important milestone for Rick Hendrick’s team, which is their 40th anniversary season. Hendrick Motorsports is going to celebrate this milestone with a special logo that was revealed via their social media handles. Having started the team back in 1984, Rick Hendrick has certainly built a legacy that is unmatched in the NASCAR world.

It’s not just that Hendrick Motorsports will celebrate its 40th year with its team, but the fans will also be able to join in. The merchandise for the 40th anniversary of Hendrick Motorsports is also available online. It’s not every day that the winningest team in the NASCAR Cup Series reaches its 40th anniversary. So the likes of Kyle Larson and Chase Elliot will be hoping to crown this special year with a championship.

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Hendrick Motorsports could further add to their championship streak with a special win in their 40th anniversary season. However, it will certainly be an uphill climb considering the competition.