The track is a Tri-oval and was constructed by International Speedway Corporation, a business controlled by the France Family, in the 1960s.

Talladega Superspeedway is the longest NASCAR oval with a length of 2.66 miles (4.28 km), and the track at its peak had a seating capacity of 175,000 spectators.

Dick Skillen was the last-place finisher due to a crash on the first lap with Travis Tiller, Tommy Gale, Billie Harvey, Grant Adcox, and Neil Bonnett.

[3] Neil Bonnett driving in relief for Tim Richmond was leading the race with 12 laps to go when he pitted for fuel only.

Dale Earnhardt would defeat Darrell Waltrip by four car lengths in this race; securing his last victory for an owner other than Richard Childress.