Latemodel

Latemodel is a term used in North American short-track racing to describe a class of stock cars designed for competition on oval tracks, including both asphalt and dirt surfaces. The designation covers asphalt late model stock cars and dirt late models, which share a focus on speed, handling, and close racing while following distinct rule sets governed by regional or national sanctioning bodies. Latemodel cars are generally ground for performance beyond earlier street-stock classes, yet they aim to remain representative of production-car silhouettes.

Construction and rules vary by discipline and organization, but common elements include a purpose-built chassis, often tubular steel, with a rigid suspension and a fiberglass or composite body that mimics production cars. Engines are prepared and regulated to maintain parity across competitors, with restrictions on displacement, fuel delivery, and tuning in many series. Transmissions are typically manual, and safety gear such as a roll cage, racing seat, five-point harness, and fire suppression systems are mandatory. Weight, aerodynamics, and handling characteristics are controlled to promote competitive balance and skillful driving on varying track configurations.

Regional and national competition is organized through a mix of touring series and weekly tracks. In asphalt racing, Late Model Stock Cars are a prominent division at many short-track venues, including the NASCAR Whelen All-American Series. Dirt racing features Dirt Late Models, which dominate major regional circuits such as the World of Outlaws Late Model Series. The latemodel class is characterized by close racing, high speeds on short tracks, and a strong emphasis on driver skill.