It is the first in the series to include manufacturer representation (although the Windows version of NASCAR 2000 and NASCAR Arcade, released by Sega under EA Sports' license, also featured manufacturer branding) and Daytona International Speedway.

[3][4] However, David Chen of NextGen said of the PlayStation 2 version, "Ultimately as enjoyable as driving in circles, NASCAR 2001 is neither pretty nor fun.

At the very least, a rental will get your adrenaline pumping for a weekend of true NASCAR competition fun.

"[25][b] About an issue later, Air Hendrix wrote, "For its rookie season on the PS2, NASCAR 2001 handles like a winner.

It's not perfect, but it's close enough to thrill stock-car fans looking for the next cool ride.