Dale Earnhardt Jr.'s 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Auction: A Legendary Piece Of Racing History

Dale Earnhardt Jr.'s 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo has just sold at auction for just $50,500 via 'Cars And Bids'. This particular model is famous for its iconic red-and-black Budweiser design, a hallmark of Earnhardt Jr.'s racing career. Built by Dale Earnhardt Industries, this vehicle participated in significant NASCAR events during the 2007 season, including the prestigious Pepsi 400 at Daytona, which is part of the esteemed Nextel Cup Series. This auction represents not just the sale of a car but a slice of racing history.

The stock car is powered by a robust 5.9-liter V-8 engine that delivers between 600 to 800 horsepower, depending on its configuration. This impressive power is efficiently transferred to the rear wheels through a four-speed manual transmission. It's crucial to highlight that this vehicle is strictly non-street legal and was exclusively designed for the racetrack, making it a true collector's item.

In addition to its powerful engine, the car is equipped with a roll cage for driver safety, a quick-release steering wheel, and an advanced fire suppression system. Notably, the traditional driver's side window has been replaced with a safety net, enhancing the safety features of this racing machine. Furthermore, both the front and rear windows are made from a durable, lightweight composite material instead of standard glass, showcasing the advanced engineering that went into its design.

Dale Earnhardt Jr. — Meg Oliphant/Getty Images

Despite the fact that it has not graced the racetrack in competition for nearly 17 years, this car remains in pristine condition. It has been carefully stored to maintain its historic value, showing only minor nicks and some noticeable tire wear from its racing days. Currently, the car is held by Curated, a Miami-based dealership that specializes in high-end exotic vehicles, which acquired this remarkable piece in 2023.

Bidding concluded today with the car selling for a surprising $50,500. According to a report from Motor1, the expected price range was much higher, estimated between $225,000 to $500,000, making this sale quite unexpected. The auction highlighted the enduring appeal of NASCAR memorabilia and the legacy of Dale Earnhardt Jr. in the racing world.

In addition to the auction news, Shane van Gisbergen is set to take over Earnhardt Jr.'s iconic No. 88 with Trackhouse Racing. Dale Earnhardt Jr. expressed his excitement for the new chapter, stating on social media, "I was lucky to run a few numbers with so much rich history. Excited to see @shanevg97 and @TeamTrackhouse add a new chapter to it. 88 will have a good home there."