A Dodge Intrepid stock car connected to the automaker’s return to NASCAR’s top division is drawing attention as it heads to auction on BringATrailer, offering collectors a rare opportunity to acquire a significant piece of modern motorsports history.
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The race car traces its roots to Dodge’s preparations for its re-entry into the NASCAR Cup Series in 2001. According to the auction listing, the tube-frame chassis was built by Ronnie Hopkins Engineering and served as part of the manufacturer’s development efforts during the 2000 season. The program was led by Ray Evernham, with NASCAR Hall of Famer Bill Elliott playing a key role in testing and development.
Dodge’s return to premier stock car racing marked the end of a lengthy absence that stretched back to the late 1970s. Evernham Motorsports became central to the comeback effort, helping develop the Intrepid race cars that would eventually compete when Dodge officially rejoined the series.
Today, the car wears a red No. 9 Dodge Dealers/Evernham Motorsports livery that reflects its appearance during the development period. The current design replaced a previous Dawsonville Moonshine-themed wrap under the vehicle’s current ownership.
The Intrepid retains the distinctive styling elements associated with NASCAR race cars from the early 2000s, including headlight graphics, cooling vents, roof stabilization strips and a large rear spoiler. Unlike many retired race cars that spend years on display, this example has remained active on track. The seller acquired the vehicle from Bill Elliott through a BringATrailer auction in 2021 and has continued to maintain and exercise it regularly.
Power comes from a naturally aspirated 5.8-liter Dodge R5 V8 race engine paired with a Jerico four-speed manual transmission. Originally built by Ernie Elliott, the engine underwent a rebuild in 2022 by Fred Lankford of F.R.E.D. in North Carolina. Documentation included with the vehicle indicates the engine produces 808 horsepower and 537 pound-feet of torque. The seller reports approximately 16 hours of track use since the rebuild.
The race-ready configuration extends throughout the car, featuring Aero racing wheels, Goodyear Eagle slick tires, Brembo front brakes and AP Racing rear calipers. Inside, the cockpit remains purpose-built with dual ButlerBuilt racing seats, Simpson harnesses, a full roll cage and a prominent 10,000-rpm tachometer.
Additional maintenance completed under current ownership includes installation of replacement front brake rotors, new brake pads and resealed brake calipers. A signature from Bill Elliott remains displayed on the dashboard, adding another layer of significance for collectors.
Vehicles associated with Dodge’s NASCAR comeback rarely become available on the open market, particularly examples connected to both Elliott and Evernham. The combination of documented history, racing pedigree and continued track capability makes the Intrepid a noteworthy offering for both NASCAR enthusiasts and Mopar collectors.
Bidding for the historic Dodge stock car is scheduled to conclude on May 31, making it one of the more unique pieces of Dodge racing history currently available to the public.
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