Straights

3. Straights

Functions

• Acceleration
• Overtaking
• Top speed testing

Features

• Start/finish line
• Timing loops
• DRS didn’t exist yet (pure slipstream passing)

4. Pit Lane & Paddock

Pit Lane

• Entry/exit lanes
• Speed limit lines
• Concrete or reinforced asphalt

Pit Boxes

• Manual timing boards (“pit boards” still common)
• Refueling rigs (allowed in many series then)
• Tire stacks and tool carts

2000 context

• Less automation
• Fewer digital displays
• More human signaling and stopwatches

• 5. Runoff Areas

  

Designed to slow cars safely when they leave the track.

Types

• Gravel traps (very common in 2000)
• Grass
• Limited asphalt runoff

2000 difference vs today

• Much more gravel than asphalt
• Cars often beached in traps rather than rejoining
• Slightly higher rollover risk compared to modern designs

• 6. Barriers & Impact Protection

• 

  
  

  Common Systems (2000)

  • Tire walls
  • Armco (steel guardrails)
  • Concrete walls
  • Catch fencing

  Emerging tech

  • Early SAFER barriers (mainly NASCAR by early 2000s)
  • TecPro not yet widespread

  Difference vs today

  • Less energy-absorbing tech
  • Higher G-force impacts in crashes

  • 7. Kerbs (Curbs)

  • 

    
    

    Purpose

    • Mark track limits
    • Discourage corner cutting

    Style in 2000

    • Tall “sausage” kerbs or aggressive rumble strips
    • Less standardized
    • More punishing to cars

    Modern kerbs are often smoother and safer.