Two of the top motorsports series in the U.S., NASCAR and IndyCar, have huge fanbases. Both bring exciting racing, but they do it in completely different ways.
IndyCar, an open-wheel racing format, is seen as more technical and nuanced. NASCAR, with its stock car roots, leans more into raw, gritty competition. And even though NASCAR has evolved from its grassroots days, it still feels closer to them than IndyCar does. A lot of it comes down to fan preference. But from a driver’s point of view, the two are totally different worlds — even though both are elite racing formats.
Kyle Larson of Hendrick Motorsports, who’s set to take on his second shot at “The Double,” recently shared how he sees the differences between the two.
Kyle Larson Surprisingly Does Not Find Many Differences Between the Two Cars
Larson, who attempted “The Double” last year, seems more confident heading into his second try. Before his big weekend, he appeared on “First Things First” for a quick interview.
After talking about his travel schedule, he gave a glimpse of his motivation. He admitted that winning both races would be a huge deal and said it would be “super cool” to become the first driver to ever pull it off.
But his biggest motivator? Simply the love of racing — and trying out different types of it.
“I race probably another 50 races on dirt tracks, sprint cars, and stuff. That’s not normal. So it shows the love that I have for racing,” Larson said.
He then explained how IndyCar and NASCAR compare from behind the wheel.
When Chris Broussard asked Larson, “How much different are the two races, like from preparation to the experience of it, and all that?” Larson started with the cars themselves.
While the two vehicles look very different, Larson said that from a driving feel, they aren’t as far apart as many might expect.
MORE: Larson Reveals Motivation Behind Risky ‘Double’ Attempt
“The feel that I have between the two cars, it’s not that crazy different.”
The Gen 6 NASCAR car was more traditional stock, but the current Next Gen model brings it closer to IndyCar, with features like independent suspension and tires with shorter sidewalls.
Still, Larson pointed out a major contrast — the speed.
“You’re going a lot faster in the IndyCar. Like we’ll be 235 or 237 [mph] probably in the race at the end of the straightaways. NASCAR will be 195 [mph] at Charlotte, but the sensation is still the same.”
He made it clear that neither series is easier. Strategy, pit stops, and passing are all tough in both formats.
Wrapping up his IndyCar thoughts, Larson added, “Although I’m not experienced here in IndyCar, I feel like my oval experience in NASCAR should help.”