New Pontiac testing UPDATE: Pontiac, seeking approval of its 2003 Grand Prix, had Bobby Labonte test the car Thursday before NASCAR officials at Atlanta Motor Speedway. Labonte, who drives Pontiacs for Joe Gibbs Racing in Winston Cup competition, completed 22 laps at more than 180 mph before the new car was taken to the wind tunnel in Marietta, Ga., for the final part of the submission test. “This is a whole new car,” said Ray Smith, Winston Cup program manager for Pontiac. “We think it’s a good one.” The Grand Prix being campaigned in NASCAR’s top series is the oldest current model in use. If approved, the new Grand Prix would be introduced at the start of the 2003 season.(AP/Sporting News)(5-10-2002) UPDATE: Bobby Labonte completed 22 laps, averaging in the mid-180s (mph), during a submission test with NASCAR for the 2003 Pontiac on Thursday at Atlanta Motor Speedway. After the half-day test was completed, the new Pontiac was headed to the wind tunnel in Marietta to complete the submission test. This is a whole new car, said Ray Smith, Pontiac Winston Cup Program Manager. We think it’ a good one, but well know more by the end of the day.(Atlanta Motor Speedway)(5-12-2002)
