Definition
The 1982 World 600 was a NASCAR Winston Cup Series stock car race held on May 30 1982 at Charlotte Motor Speedway in Concord, North Carolina. It was the 23rd running of the event, which is traditionally contested over 600 miles (966.6 km).
Overview
The race formed part of the 1982 NASCAR Winston Cup season, serving as the 12th race of the 30‑race schedule. The event took place on the 1.5‑mile (2.41 km) quad‑oval Charlotte Motor Speedway, requiring 400 laps to complete the 600‑mile distance. Darrell Waltrip, driving the No. 11 Chevrolet for Junior Johnson & Associates, won the race, securing his second consecutive World 600 victory. The pole position was claimed by Kyle Petty, who posted a qualifying speed of 158.814 mph (255.7 km/h). An estimated 140,000 spectators attended the event.
Etymology/Origin
The term “World 600” originated from the race’s original name, reflecting its status as a 600‑mile (approximately 965‑kilometre) endurance contest. The designation “World” was intended to emphasize the race’s prestige within NASCAR and its appeal to a national audience. The 1982 edition retained this traditional name; the event has since been renamed the “Coca‑Cola 600” after successive title‑sponsor changes.
Characteristics
- Venue: Charlotte Motor Speedway, Concord, North Carolina, United States
- Track layout: 1.5‑mile (2.41 km) quad‑oval, asphalt surface
- Distance: 600 mi (966.6 km) – 400 laps
- Date: May 30 1982 (Memorial Day weekend)
- Winner: Darrell Waltrip (Chevrolet, No. 11) – 3 hours 36 minutes 12 seconds, average speed 161.207 mph (259.3 km/h)
- Pole position: Kyle Petty (Ford, No. 42) – 30.378 seconds, 158.814 mph (255.7 km/h)
- Lead laps: Darrell Waltrip led 226 laps, the most of any driver in the race.
- Cautions: 6 caution periods covering 38 laps.
- Attendance: Approximately 140,000 spectators.
Related Topics
- NASCAR Winston Cup Series – the premier stock‑car racing series in which the World 600 was contested.
- Charlotte Motor Speedway – the permanent racing facility that hosts the World 600 and other major NASCAR events.
- Coca‑Cola 600 – the current name of the race, reflecting its modern sponsorship.
- 1982 NASCAR Winston Cup Series season – the broader championship season that included the 1982 World 600.
- Darrell Waltrip – three‑time NASCAR champion and winner of the 1982 World 600.
- Kyle Petty – pole‑sitter for the 1982 event and prominent NASCAR driver.