Apparently the new Monte Carlo will not show up in the 1999 Winston Cup season. Reports say that Chevrolet officials have decided to wait until the 2000 Daytona 500 to debut the new racing version. Several reasons were behind the move but apparently the inability to smoothly get the street version of the car to dealers around the country on NASCAR’s timetable and the fear of further delays by NASCAR in approving the new car causing dilution of the release publicity were key. Chevrolet officials are aware that NASCAR approval should come before the end of 1999, but they will encourage Chevy teams to continue to use the current Monte Carlo body style until the 2000 “500”. Chevrolet officials do want to have one new Monte Carlo in the Brickyard 400 in August. Entering one in this manner would not affect the Manufacturer’s Championship battle.( Inside Motorsports ) — GM officials reportedly have said that someone will definitely drive the new Monte Carlo at the Brickyard 400 in August. They have not, however, required all Chevrolet drivers to be in the car. If the car is introduced that way, it can be seen on the track without affecting the championship race( Times-Dispatch )
