Dale achieved the track record at Watkins Glen and won the pole with this car, one week after a tough weekend at Talladega. The Watkins Glen pole award then became known as the "True Grit Pole". By now, you are probably wondering why I keep putting the word Monte Carlo behind the year and paint scheme. Dale did not always only drive Monte Carlo's. Again, the standard paint scheme in place for the 1996 racing season with the familiar GM logo and Goodwrench Service Plus lettering on the hood. You can see the paint outline of the headlights as this was before the use of faux-glass decals. The window frame bears the AC Delco red circle logo. Mom 'n' Pops graces the rear quarter panel as Burger King would not join the sponsorship until the following year.Dale would finish this season 4th, 330 points behind champion Terry Labonte.