Richard Petty voices The King, the veteran racer with number 43, in Pixar’s Cars.
The King is a highly successful Piston Cup competitor whose design is based on a Plymouth Superbird. His number 43 and nickname clearly reference Richard Petty, one of NASCAR’s most famous drivers. Petty’s voice gives the character an authentic connection to American stock-car racing.
In the story, The King represents experience, professionalism, and the pressure of competing near the end of a long career. His crash during the final Piston Cup race helps Lightning McQueen recognize the consequences of selfishly chasing victory and leaving a rival without assistance.
The King is not the winner of that race; Chick Hicks takes the victory after McQueen stops to help him. This distinction matters because The King is the film’s celebrated veteran, while Chick is the aggressive rival whose racing behavior drives the climax.