‘Evolution – Stock Car to Racecar’: Exploring pivotal moments of NASCAR

The film series takes viewers inside the most compelling stories and pivotal moments through the eyes of influential NASCAR legends and characters -- both past and present. This film will look at the evolution of the NASCAR racer from the earliest years in the sport up to the present Next Gen car, with analysis by stars such as Richard Petty, Richard Childress, Bobby Labonte, Chad Knaus, Jeff Burton and more.

Louise Smith is pictured with a Generation 1. These cars were stock frame and body with heavy-duty rear axle to keep cars from flipping during the race.

Mario Andretti won the Daytona 500 in 1967 in his Generation 2 car. These stock car frames were slightly modified from the previous years.

The film highlights the numerous changes and groundbreaking advancements the NASCAR Cup Series vehicle has undergone over the last 75 years, shining the spotlight on all seven generations of the NASCAR racer.

Darrell Waltrip prepares to re-enter the race after a pit stop in a Generation 3. During this time, NASCAR downsizes cars to better resemble cars on the showroom floor. The body panels were still purchased through manufacturers.

In 1995, Jeff Gordon won in a Generation 4 car that was highly modified. During this time, teams spent hours in the wind tunnel to gain aero edge.

The NASCAR racer also went through changes in Generation 5 and Generation 6 before a complete overhaul for the Next Gen car. To learn the complete story, watch "Evolution - Stock Car to Racecar" at 6 p.m. ET Thursday on FS1 during Race Hub.