Elliott Wins by Just 18 Inches in Daytona Race

Bill Elliott scraped to an 18-inch victory over Rick Wilson Saturday in the Firecracker 400 NASCAR stock car race at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla.

Elliott, who had started in 38th position in the 42-car field, avoided a second-lap accident and later used a caution period to put himself into position for his late charge.

Wilson, who led for 19 laps, had a chance to lap Elliott but chose, instead to run behind him, drafting. A caution period from Laps 110 to 115 allowed Elliott to close ground, and he again hooked up with Wilson, but with Wilson in front.

Elliott took the lead with 23 laps left. The two stayed that way until the last lap, when Wilson moved under Elliott in Turn 4 to take the lead. But Elliott had enough power to nudge the nose of his car back in front, and their cars were rubbing together as they crossed the finish line.

Dale Earnhardt was third, followed by Darrell Waltrip, Buddy Baker and Morgan Shepherd. Elliott earned $63,500 and averaged 163.302 m.p.h.