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September 25, 2024

Posted By : Barrett-Jackson

Written By : Nicole Ellan James

ICONIC PACE CARS: Celebrating NASCAR History from Chevrolet at the 2024 Scottsdale Fall Auction

September 25, 2024
Posted by Barrett-Jackson

Written by Nicole Ellan James

LOT #470.2 – 2017 CHEVROLET CAMARO ZL1 – NO RESERVE

NASCAR pace cars serve as the guardians of the race. They set the tempo, control the action and add an extra layer of excitement to NASCAR events. Nowhere is this more evident than at the Daytona 500 and the Brickyard 400, two of the most prestigious races in NASCAR history. At the 2024 Scottsdale Fall Auction, taking place October 10-13 at WestWorld, Chevrolet is set to offer 21 legitimate and authentic pace cars from its Heritage Collection with No Reserve that circled the oval at some of the most iconic races.

LOT #473 – 2007 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 – NO RESERVE

The Daytona 500, first held in 1959 at Daytona International Speedway in Florida, is the most prestigious race in NASCAR. Known for its high speeds, thrilling finishes and rich history, it has become one of the most anticipated events of the season. The 2011 Daytona 500 was paced by a 2011 Chevrolet Camaro 2SS, outfitted with the Synergy Series special edition package. This Camaro didn’t just shine at Daytona; it went on to lead the field at several other NASCAR Cup Series races throughout the season.

The Corvette Z06 also made notable appearances, with specially built models pacing both the 2006 and 2007 Daytona 500 races. In 2007, a Corvette Z06 led the pack with Cal Ripken Jr. as the honorary pace car driver, guiding the field as Kevin Harvick took the checkered flag. The previous year, comedian Jay Leno took the wheel of the 2006 Z06 pace car, setting the stage for Jimmie Johnson’s victory.

The Brickyard 400, a staple in the NASCAR series since its inception in 1994, has seen an impressive lineup of pace cars over the years. One standout is a 2017 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1. This fierce machine set the pace at the 2017 Brickyard 400 and was piloted by none other than NASCAR legend Jeff Gordon. Another notable entry is the 2013 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, specifically built for the race that year and driven ahead of winner Ryan Newman.

Among the most celebrated in the collection is the 2013 Chevrolet Corvette Z06, crafted as an official pace car for the 2012 Brickyard 400 race. Driven by film director Ron Howard, it boasts a 60th anniversary package, Arctic White paint with Pearl Silver Blue stripes and a luxurious blue diamond leather interior.

LOT #472.1 – 2011 CHEVROLET CORVETTE GS – NO RESERVE

The Chevrolet Corvette has long been a favorite as the pace car for the Brickyard 400, bringing a blend of performance and style to the track. In 2011, a Supersonic Blue Grand Sport Corvette led the field, driven by soccer star Hope Solo and making a memorable statement with its bold color and dynamic presence. The 2009 race, won by Jimmie Johnson, featured a Corvette Z06 known for its formidable track capabilities straight from the factory, requiring minimal modifications – only a custom red and silver paint scheme and the essential safety strobe lighting system. For the 2008 event, also won by Johnson, a Corvette Z06 took center stage. The previous year, Tony Stewart’s victory lap followed a patriotic red, white and blue 2007 Corvette Z06 that matched the race’s All-American spirit. Jimmie Johnson’s 2006 win was paced by a 505-horsepower 2006 Corvette Z06, featuring custom paint and the signature strobe lighting system.

Over the years, the Brickyard 400 has featured several standout pace cars that have added a unique flair to the race. In 2005, a Chevrolet SSR pickup led the pack, catching attention with its distinctive True Blue and Molten Orange paint scheme. Tony Stewart claimed victory that year, following the SSR’s lead around the historic track. The 2004 race saw a Chevrolet Monte Carlo serve as the official pace car, powered by a 3.8-liter supercharged V6 paired with a 4T65-E transaxle, proving that even a supercharged sedan could command the track with authority. A 2004 Monte Carlo was used in the 2003 race, ending in a win for Kevin Harvick.

The Chevrolet Monte Carlo was a favorite choice for pace car duties throughout the early 2000s and 1990s as well, consistently leading the field. A 2000 Monte Carlo led race winner Bill Elliot in 2002, Jeff Gordon in 2001 and Bobby Labonte in 2000. All three cars featured unique graphics and were powered by the production 3600 Series II V6 engines. In 1999, Dale Jarrett’s victory was led by a 2000 Monte Carlo pace car, continuing the model’s legacy at the track. The 1998 race, won by Jeff Gordon, featured not one but two special 1998 Monte Carlo pace cars, each adorned with custom graphics. The 1997 Brickyard 400, won by Ricky Rudd, saw another standout Monte Carlo – a 1998 model modified specifically for pace car duties.

NASCAR pace cars are more than just functional race vehicles; they are symbols of performance, heritage and excitement that enhance the spectacle of some of the sport’s most legendary races. From the Daytona 500 to the Brickyard 400, these pace cars have played a pivotal role in setting the stage for thrilling moments in NASCAR history, each with its own unique design and story. Lead the pack and register to bid today.