09 September 2010

Throwback Liveries

On Tuesday, More Front Wing's Paul Dalbey and I were trading ideas via twitter on throwback liveries.  That got me thinking: which cars from IndyCar's glory days would we most want to see recreated for a race?

In no particular order, here are a few:

  • Danny Sullivan, 1988.  The goldMiller machine was not Sullivan's most famous car (the 1985 spin n' win livery probably is), but it is highly recognizable.

    As Paul suggested, with the series returning to Milwaukee, it would be a nice bone to throw in the home of the Miller Brewery.

    The only question is whether Andretti Autosport (currently sponsored by Miller Lite) or Penske would run the car.


  • Bobby Rahal, 1986.  2011 marks the 25th anniversary of Rahal's lone Indianapolis 500 victory.

    What better way to commemorate the achievement than by
    having Graham Rahal run the familiar Budweiser/Red Roof Inn car at Indianapolis?


    If the younger Rahal winds up running for his father's team next season, how does this not happen?

     All that's left is for Graham to grow out the mustache and get some glasses.  Honestly, this idea cannot fail. 


  • Rick Mears, 1988.  Mears' third Indianapolis 500-winning car is another logical choice for Penske to run.  In 2011, Penske will receive primary sponsorship from Shell/Pennzoil for its NASCAR program.  The team will also use some of the sponsorship for its IndyCar side, though not as a primary sponsor.

    Mears was always a fan favorite; running the familiar yellow Pennzoil car would surely be a hit with fans once again.  


    Plus, for those who don't want to cheer for Penske, it's a reminder of Sam Hornish, Jr.'s strong runs in the early days of the Indy Racing League.  Alas, he went to Penske, so it all comes back to them, I suppose.


  • Bobby Unser, 1981.  Again, another anniversary car.  This one for one of the most controversial finishes in Indianapolis 500 history.  Bobby Unser's Norton machine from his third and final Indianapolis victory would be a historic choice.

    Additionally, it would give fans a quick little history lesson.

    Penske probably can't commemorate Rick Mears' fourth Indianapolis win with the Marlboro car, so this would be a substitute.

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