Indy Car Facts

Indy cars are an open-wheel car that races in the 500-mile race called the Indianapolis 500. Once called Championship Cars, the name Indy is a popular term tied to the Indianapolis car race.

  1. Fuel Tank

    • An Indy car's fuel tank holds 40 gallons and must have a fuel efficiency of 108 miles per gallon.

    Gasoline

    • Since 1964, Indy cars do not run on gasoline but instead use a wood-based alcohol called methanol. Indy cars use methanol for safety reasons--it is not an explosive gasoline.

    Wheels

    • The wheels on Indy cars are 15 inches in diameter and 10 to 14 inches in width.

    Tires

    • When racing, each Indy car is allowed 28 tires for a 200-mile race and 60 tires for a 500-mile race.

    Fun Fact

    • If you put an Indy car engine in a riding lawn mower, you could cut a half-acre lawn in 5 1/2 seconds.

    Chassis

    • Carbon filter, aluminum or a combination of both make up the Indy car chassis for maximum protection of the driver.