Which real NASCAR driver inspired Pixar’s character Chick Hicks in Cars?

Pixar’s character Chick Hicks was inspired in part by NASCAR driver Dale Earnhardt.

Chick Hicks is Lightning McQueen’s aggressive rival in Cars and drives the number 86 car. His design and hard-driving behavior evoke the intimidating image associated with stock-car racing, while his signature moustache-like grille gives him a distinctive animated appearance.

The character is not a direct biography of Earnhardt. Chick is fictional and is portrayed as an unsportsmanlike competitor who is willing to use contact and dirty tactics to win the Piston Cup.

Dale Earnhardt was one of NASCAR’s most successful and influential drivers. He won seven NASCAR Cup Series championships, matching the record held by Richard Petty and Jimmie Johnson. Cars uses real racing influences while creating its own fictional drivers, teams, and championship history.