Different Races
IndyCar, Formula One (F1), and NASCAR are three of the most popular racing series in the world. These three franchises attract automotive enthusiasts of all ages and genders from around the world. However, many people do not realize that there is a difference between IndyCar and Formula One. The cars both used in Formula One and IndyCar look very similar because they constructed using an open-wheel and open cockpit design. While both Indy and F1 cars use similar technologies, the cars share many differences from one another.
Performance
The cars used in IndyCar and Formula One perform differently from one another due to a few reasons. Indy cars are required to use a 2.2-liter V6 engine, while F1 requires that their teams utilize a smaller 1.6-liter V6 engine platform. While the individual systems may vary, both series allow their drivers to use push-to-pass systems in their cars. The systems allow drivers to pass other drivers or prevent overtaking by providing additional power to the vehicles at the press of a button. As a result of larger engine layouts in addition to a few other factors, Indy cars are capable of reaching up to 235 miles per hour on average while their F1 counterparts reach an average figure of around 200 miles per hour.
Regulations
IndyCar and Formula One are both guided by several regulations. One of the most significant regulation differences lies in the fuel that the cars use and the refueling guidelines of the cars. Indy cars use methanol fuel while Formula One cars use gasoline. While IndyCar teams are allowed to refuel their cars in the pit lanes, teams in F1 are not allowed to refuel during the races. Additionally, IndyCar allows its drivers to complete warm-up laps before the start of the race. However, racing begins immediately after the cars have lined up in Formula One.
Popularity
Formula One is immensely popular around the world. While IndyCar is popular as well, it is mostly known in the United States because it is an American racing series. Formula One races are held throughout Europe and North America, while IndyCar races are solely in the United States.
