The 1962 NASCAR Grand National season consisted of 53 championship races held across the United States on paved and dirt ovals, road courses, and superspeedways, reflecting the broad and transitional nature of NASCAR’s schedule during the early 1960s. The season championship was won by Joe Weatherly, driving primarily Pontiac-backed machinery for Bud Moore Engineering. Weatherly captured the title through consistency rather than domination, recording eight victories along with numerous strong finishes. His aggressive but controlled driving style proved effective under the points system of the era, which rewarded steady participation and finishes across a long and grueling schedule. Weatherly’s championship marked Pontiac’s growing influence in NASCAR and solidified his status as one of the sport’s elite drivers.
Several drivers produced standout seasons despite not winning the championship. Junior Johnson led all drivers with ten victories, making 1962 one of the most successful years of his career. Mechanical issues and missed races kept him from contending for the title. The Daytona 500 was won by Fireball Roberts, driving a Pontiac, giving him his lone victory in NASCAR’s most prestigious race. Richard Petty, still early in his career, scored multiple wins and continued his rise as a consistent front-runner. Manufacturer competition was intense throughout the season, with Pontiac, Ford, and Chevrolet all heavily involved, though Pontiac emerged as the dominant brand overall. The 1962 season is correctly remembered as a key step toward increased factory backing, deeper competition, and the emergence of drivers and teams that would define NASCAR throughout the decade.
February 18, 1962
Late February 1962
April 29, 1962
June 10, 1962
Mid-June Timeframe
July 4, 1962
September 3, 1962
October 14, 1962
