Not many people know that NASCAR’s early history included several foreign manufacturers, such as Aston Martin, Austin-Healey, Citroën, Jaguar, MG, Morgan, Porsche, Renault, and Volkswagen. At a 1954 road race in Linden, New Jersey, Jaguar had the biggest day ever for a foreign mark, with cars finishing first, fourth, fifth and sixth.

As a matter of policy, and probably concession to anti-foreign make sentiment, NASCAR restricted entry to American car makers since the 1960’s, but in 2004, Toyota was allowed to enter the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series with the Toyota Tundra, and in their third year they are dominating the series. The restriction was relaxed in recognition of the fact that the Tundra, while Japanese in origin, is built in America. In fact, the only car assembled in the US proper now, is the Camry, since the Ford car is assembled in Mexico, and the Dodge and Chevy are assembled in Canada.

Fans have complained about the entry of a foreign manufacturer into what is perceived as an American sport, while drivers and owners have expressed concern that Toyota’s deep pockets, and stated willingness to spend, may increase costs for other teams as well.

NASCAR announced in 2006 the addition of Toyota to both the Busch Series and NEXTEL Cup Series for the 2007 season. Toyota is supporting three Cup teams in a total of seven cars in 2007. Notable drivers that switched to the Toyota Camry include Dave Blaney, Michael Waltrip, and Dale Jarrett, while Brian Vickers and AJ Almendinger are driving for the power house racing sponser, Red Bull.

Four Camrys qualified for and ran in the 2007 Daytona 500, becoming the first foreign make to compete in a NEXTEL Cup race since the British-made MG in 1962. However, Toyota’s debut was marred by a substance found in the intake manifold of owner/driver Michael Waltrip, starting what has become a disasterous season for that Toyota team with suspensions, fines and point reductions.