Editor’s Note: NASCAR is celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2023. Ford began 1966 planning to use a 427-cubic-inch “lo-rise” engine after its single-overhead cam engine was deemed “strictly racing” by NASCAR. NASCAR approved Ford’s single-overhead cam engine, but with an adjoiner which put Ford at a weight disadvantage. This effectively put Ford at a 400-pound disadvantage versus Chrysler cars and pushed the car maker to retire from NASCAR after a five-year stint. In a reversal of roles, Chrysler drivers now found themselves with little competition from disadvantaged Ford pilots. On the season, Plymouths and Dodges won 33 of the 49 races, with 13 falling to Ford pilots and three to Chevrolet owners.

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