The people who give me a hard time about being a NASCAR fan will definitely have fun with this title. But I had questions and this was the only book that showed up in an Amazon.com search. Besides, I can always say the series is done by Wiley Publishing which also does about half the engineering textbooks on the planet.
Mark Martin is a verteran driver who has been second in total points at the end of four different seasons. His book answered most of my questions and the ones other people had asked me. Right now you probably want to know that they use 358 cubic inch V8's generating 750 HP in a car weighing 3400 lbs. Those are Winston Cup numbers. The trucks are about the same at 710 HP. The Busch cars are down at 550 HP but are 100 lbs lighter and five inches shorter. Winston Cup cars are by no means technically advanced. For example, I about passed out when I saw a picture showing what a "track bar" adjustment really does and realized they still run solid rear axles! NASCAR is about big engines, LOUD engines, and careering around a track and often into each other. Say what you will but the races are fun to watch and fun to attend.
In addition to the physical cars, the different race series, the structure of the teams, and the business model of NASCAR, Mark also covers details about the different tracks with an emphasis on information you need to attend a race. Contrary to some opinions I've heard, NASCAR drivers don't always turn left. I would have realized it later in this season, but Mark pointed out that NASCAR runs two road courses: Watkins Glen and Sears Point. Lots of twists and turns to sort out the best of the best.
Mark's sponsor used to be Valvoline but he has been driving for Pfizer (yes Viagra) since before I started following NASCAR. The book was obviously started before this change so there is a minor disconnect between some references in the text and the photos appearing in the book. In addition, a few rules have changed since the book came out. Most significantly, cars must use the same engine in the race as they did in qualifying (or get sent to the back of the field if they blow one up). Not a big deal but I thought I'd mention it. On the whole I was happy with the book and thought it gave a good introduction to the sport.