History of Pro stock in Timeline

Pro Stock is a drag racing class known for its naturally aspirated, high-performance cars. Often called 'factory hot rods,' these vehicles adhere to strict regulations regarding engine modifications and body types, prohibiting forced induction methods like turbochargers, superchargers, or nitrous oxide. The class emphasizes raw engine power and skillful driving within a controlled environment.

1970: Pro Stock Class Emerges

In 1970, the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) pro stock class emerged from the production-based super stock with more liberal rules and without handicaps.

1972: NHRA Introduces Rules for Small Displacement V8s

In 1972, the NHRA attempted to balance the playing field by introducing rules allowing for small displacement V8, compact cars carrying favorable weight.

July 1973: NHRA Requires Competition Licenses

On July 1, 1973, the NHRA mandated that pro stock drivers must have competition licenses, similar to those required for blown or fuel dragsters and funny cars.

1973: Nicholson and Jenkins Set Pro Stock Records

In 1973 at the NHRA Winternationals, "Dyno Don" Nicholson set the first official pro stock elapsed time record with a 9.33 seconds run, while Bill Jenkins set a record speed of 148.76 mph. Nicholson later broke both records at the same event with a 9.01 second run at 150.50 mph.

1974: Bob Glidden Wins Championship

During the 1974 season, Bob Glidden became the first driver to win a pro stock championship.

1975: Bob Glidden Wins Second Championship

During the 1975 season, Bob Glidden became the first driver to win two pro stock championships.

1978: Bob Glidden's Dominance

During the 1978 season, Bob Glidden showcased his dominance by advancing to 18 of the 19 final rounds.

1979: Bob Glidden's Winning Streak

During the 1979 season, Bob Glidden continued his dominance, winning 14 times, including nine consecutive wins.

1982: NHRA Implements Minimum Weight and Maximum Engine Size Rule

In 1982, the NHRA eliminated the weight break system and implemented a 2,350-pound minimum weight and 500 cubic inch maximum engine size rule across the board.

1983: Lee Shepherd Wins Championships

In 1983, Lee Shepherd won the second of four championships in a row and also won IHRA's title, making him the first driver to win both titles in the same year.

1984: Lee Shepherd Repeats Championship Feat

In 1984, Lee Shepherd repeated his 1983 feat by winning both the NHRA and IHRA titles again.

2004: Greg Anderson's Record-Breaking Season

In 2004, Greg Anderson set a record by winning 15 of 23 events en route to his championship.

2016: NHRA Implements Engine Formula Overhaul

In 2016, the NHRA implemented a major overhaul to the engine formula by eliminating hood scoops and double four-barrel carburetors and replacing them with electronic fuel injection.