
Dale Earnhardt Sr.'s 2001 Daytona 500 car, the black No. 3 Chevrolet Monte Carlo, is permanently and respectfully displayed at the RCR Museum in Welcome, North Carolina. The car has never been restored or repaired, remaining in the exact condition it was in when it left the track on February 18, 2001, making its preservation a solemn tribute by Richard Childress Racing.
The decision to keep the car at the team's private museum, rather than a larger institution like NASCAR's Hall of Fame, was intentional. It allows for a more controlled and respectful environment. Owner Richard Childress has stated the car will never be restored, viewing its preserved state as a crucial part of its history and a mark of respect for Earnhardt's legacy. Its location at the heart of the RCR campus makes it a significant pilgrimage site for fans.
Visiting the RCR Museum is the only way to see the car. It's displayed with dignity, often accompanied by other legendary cars from Earnhardt's career. The museum's hours vary, so checking their official website before planning a visit is essential. Seeing the car in person is a powerful, somber experience that connects fans to a pivotal moment in motorsports history.
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Car Number & Sponsor | No. 3, GM Goodwrench |
| Team Owner | Richard Childress |
| Car Model | Chevrolet Monte Carlo |
| Event | 2001 Daytona 500 |
| Final Race Finish | 12th (due to last-lap incident) |
| Current Location | RCR Museum, Welcome, NC |
| Public Accessibility | Yes, during museum operating hours |
| Car Condition | Unrestored, as-rolled-from-track |
| Museum Admission | Charge required (check website for pricing) |
| Significance | Final car driven by Dale Earnhardt Sr. |

It's at the RCR Museum in North Carolina. They've kept it exactly as it was, no fixes, no paint touch-ups. It's a really heavy sight, honestly. You stand there looking at it, and you can just feel the history. If you're a fan, you gotta go see it at least once. It’s not a happy exhibit, but it’s an important one. Just check their hours online before you make the trip.

The vehicle is preserved in its post-race state at the Richard Childress Racing Museum. From a historical preservation standpoint, its unrestored condition is intentional and significant. It serves as an authentic artifact, documenting the exact state of the machine at the conclusion of the event. This approach prioritizes historical integrity over aesthetic restoration, offering a direct, tangible link to that specific moment in time.


