Draws on the author's expertise in physics, as well as interviews with mechanics, pit crews, and other insiders, to trace the life cycle of a race car and offer insight into the scientific aspects of high-speed racing.

Foreword /Ray Evernham -- Preface : The physics of What ...? -- 1. Bones of contention -- 2. Skin care -- 3. Makeup -- 4. Combustion -- 5. Power play -- 6. The wizard and the flying car problem -- 7. Running with the pack -- 8. Texas motor speedway at 150 mph -- 9. Sound thinking -- 10. The rubber hits the road -- 11. Shock therapy -- 12. The two-lap dash : a qualified success -- 13. Keeping drivers (and fans) alive -- 14. Making racing SAFER -- 15. Practice doesn't always make perfect -- 16. Elliott is hot -- 17. The Locusts in the pit box -- 18. The checkered flag -- Notes -- Acknowledgments -- Index.