When it comes to building a competitive Late Model, every detail matters—especially your body. In the world of short track racing, aero, durability, and fitment can make the difference between running mid-pack and taking the checkered flag.
That’s why more racers are making the switch from traditional ABC bodies to the revolutionary Five Star Next Gen ABC Body—and Impel Motorsports is here to help you do the same.
In this blog, we’ll break down the key differences between the Five Star Next Gen ABC Body and the Traditional ABC Body, and explain how upgrading can give you a competitive edge.
What Is the ABC Body Rule?
The Approved Body Configuration (ABC) rule set standardizes body designs across many Late Model divisions, ensuring fair competition and maintaining brand identity (Chevy, Ford, Toyota, etc.).
Both the traditional ABC body and the Next Gen ABC body meet these specs—but the Next Gen body does so with modern engineering, improved materials, and optimized aero.
Key Differences: Next Gen vs Traditional ABC Bodies
1. Aerodynamic Performance
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Next Gen ABC Body: Designed to provide aerodynamic parity with the traditional ABC body—per ABC Committee requirements and wind tunnel testing. Not a performance upgrade.
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Traditional ABC Body: Still competitive and aerodynamically equivalent to the Next Gen option. No distinct advantage.
Takeaway: There's no aero advantage in switching—it's primarily about design updates, aesthetics, and durability.
2. Durability & Material
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Next Gen: Constructed using ultra-durable composite panels that resist cracking, splitting, and warping. Panels are also more flexible, making them less prone to permanent damage in light contact.
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Traditional: Made from older-generation fiberglass or plastic blends, which are more brittle and prone to breaking in tight pack racing.
🛠 Bonus: Next Gen panels are easier to replace individually—cutting down repair time between races.
3. Fit & Finish
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Next Gen: Uses modular, bolt-together construction with tighter tolerances. This means a cleaner look and quicker assembly.
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Traditional: May require more trimming and adjustment to align body panels, increasing build time and labor.
🔧 Builder’s Note: The Next Gen body was designed with racers and fabricators in mind—less guesswork, more performance.
4. Weight Distribution
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Next Gen: Optimized for lower center of gravity and more consistent balance, helping with overall car setup and predictability in the corners.
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Traditional: Heavier in certain areas, which may limit adjustability or affect how the car transitions in and out of turns.
📉 On Track: A better-balanced car means less tire wear, smoother transitions, and more consistent performance over a long run.
5. Modern Look
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Next Gen: Styled to resemble modern NASCAR Cup Series designs—aggressive stance, flared fenders, and a sleek greenhouse.
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Traditional: Has that classic Late Model look but may feel dated when sitting next to a Next Gen car in the pits.
🔥 Bottom Line: Sponsors and fans love the Next Gen body’s professional appearance.
Get Your ABC Body at Impel Motorsports
At Impel Motorsports, we supply racers with authentic Five Star Next Gen and Traditional ABC Bodies and accessories. Our team understands the ins and outs of Late Model setup, and we’re ready to help you get race-ready with:
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Complete body kits
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Individual replacement panels
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Mounting hardware & templates
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Setup advice and product support