NASCAR fans and collectors have a unique opportunity to own a piece of motorsport history. The iconic 1997 Championship-winning car, driven by Jeff Gordon, known as the “T-Rex,” is going up for sale. This extraordinary piece of racing heritage, famous for its role in an experimental chassis, comes with a six-figure price tag that reflects its historic significance.
Back in 1997, Hendrick Motorsports embarked on a bold experiment with a unique racing chassis. This car, famously nicknamed “T-Rex,” was designed to promote the blockbuster movie, The Lost World: Jurassic Park. The vehicle prominently featured the movie’s iconic T-Rex on its hood. It added a layer of pop culture to the world of NASCAR. However, in its current avatar, you don’t get the T-Rex on the hood.
Own a piece of NASCAR history that helped Jeff Gordon dominate the 1997 season
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The T-Rex faced its share of teething issues from the get-go. However, everything changed during a test session at the Charlotte Motor Speedway when Ray Evernham, the renowned NASCAR crew chief, discovered a groundbreaking technique. By sealing the car’s front bumper, they were able to generate increased aerodynamic downforce, giving them a competitive edge.
The T-Rex made its mark at the 1997 All-Star Race, where Jeff Gordon showed its true potential. The car’s newfound aerodynamic advantage made Gordon unstoppable, and he went on to claim the $1,000,000 prize money with ease. However, this victory caught NASCAR’s attention, leading to the quick banning of the car and significant rulebook changes.
A dedicated employee eventually acquired the racecar after it remained at the Hendrick Motorsports facility for several years. In late 2017, Rhine Enterprises of Denver, North Carolina, obtained the car and embarked on a meticulous restoration project. This restoration brought the vehicle back to its original color and livery, with completion in 2021 for the current owner.
Now, racing enthusiasts and collectors have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to acquire Jeff Gordon’s iconic T-Rex car. RK Motors in Charlotte, North Carolina, now offers this piece of NASCAR racing history, long thought to be lost and recently resurfaced, for purchase.
Since the restoration, the racecar has had limited track time, with a single track day used for testing and tuning. A fresh 358 cubic inch, 18-degree HMS engine supplies the power. They also equipped it with a new Holley carburetor, delivering around 700 horsepower. The transmission is also a fresh Jerico 4-speed manual unit. They linked the transmission to a new driveshaft and rear end with new 3.82 gears.
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With a unique place in NASCAR history, the T-Rex is now an unparalleled collector’s item. It is currently available to those who appreciate the legacy of Jeff Gordon and the innovative spirit of NASCAR in 1997. It is a testament to the ever-evolving world of motorsport and the thrilling, boundary-pushing innovations that have marked its history. For those with a passion for racing, owning the T-Rex represents a connection to one of the most iconic moments in the sport’s past, and it’s available for those willing to invest in a piece of racing history.