If both cars run the same ET, then the winner is determined by the driver s reaction time. Reaction time is the time between the green light and when the car begins to move forward, breaking the light beam that starts the clock. There are three levels of NHRA drag racing. The NHRA Summit Racing Series is an entry-level program that allows almost anyone to participate at their local track. All you need is a valid driver s license and any car, truck or motorcycle that can pass an NHRA safety inspection.
Slower vehicles get a handicapped head start to equalize the competition.
While there are some high-dollar machines at these events, it doesn t take a big budget to run a full season. This program is designed to give every driver a place to learn the sport, and the advantage usually goes to the more talented driver. The next step up the ladder is the NHRA Federal-Mogul Drag Racing Series. There are divisional and national titles for street and competition car classes, including alcohol-fueled funny cars and dragsters. There s even a class called Nostalgia Dragster.