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Oldsmobile Series 70 1st Gen

1939 – 1940 — USA

The Generation 3 of stock cars used in NASCAR from 1981 to 1991, also utilized in the Busch Series until 1993, marked a significant period of change. As NASCAR aimed to make the cars more closely resemble vehicles found in showrooms, the wheelbase was set at 110 inches, resulting in smaller cars compared to the previous generations. Body panels in this era were still sourced from manufacturers. Notably, the Generation 3 stock cars were introduced amid an aero war between General Motors and Ford, leading to the incorporation of bigger spoilers and streamlined designs that deviated from showroom models. Key Points: 1. Generation 3 stock cars were utilized in NASCAR from 1981 to 1991, with use in the Busch Series until 1993. 2. These cars were downsized to 110 inches in wheelbase to mirror showroom vehicles, a departure from previous generations. 3. Body panels continued to be purchased directly from manufacturers during this period. 4. The Generation 3 era was characterized by a second aero war between General Motors and Ford, prompting the inclusion of larger spoilers and more aerodynamic designs. 5. This generation of cars played a role in the introduction of restrictor plates at Daytona and Talladega due to their speed and aerodynamic characteristics.