This vehicle theoretically launched Dale's career in the stock car series. This was an un-sponsored car owned by Rod Osterlund, which Dale drove in his 6th NASCAR event (actually his 6th ride and 9th start) at Atlanta (Race 29).  Rumors from DEI itself suggest that Dale only drove this in the Busch series, however, Dale Cline in "Remembering Dale Earnhardt" suggests otherwise. This car was driven only once in the last race of the season at Atlanta. Dale qualified 10th, lost a lap twice, and climbed back up to finish 4th out of 6 lead lap cars, against the likes of Darryl Waltrip and Cale Yarborough.