Ernie Elliott is recognized as one of the best engine builders in NASCAR Winston Cup. Elliott, 55, began his Winston Cup career in 1976 as engine builder, crew chief, and team manager for his brother, Bill Elliott. Michigan businessman Harry Melling bought the family-owned race team in 1981. This began one of the most successful partnerships in Winston Cup history.

Ernie Elliott’s engines dominated the race tracks through the eighties with his brother, Bill, at the wheel. The team’s first taste of success came in 1985 when they won 11 poles, 11 victories, and the inaugural Winston Million. In 1987, they set the qualifying record at Talladega Superspeedway of 212.809 mph. The record still stands today. In 1988, they achieved their dream, the Winston Cup Championship.

Elliott continued to build engines for Melling through 1994, even though Bill departed in 1992. During that time, he also built for Kenny Bernstein, who owned the car of Brett Bodine. The brothers reunited in 1995, but separated again in 2001. While Bill went with Evernham Motorsports, Ernie signed with Chip Ganassi Racing with Felix Sabates.

Ernie and his wife, Sheila, own and operate Ernie Elliott, Inc. in two locations. The home base, which was incorporated in 1987, in Dawsonville, GA and a subsidiary in Concord, NC. They currently employ 52 people including their two daughters, Julie and Nicolette. For more information on Ernie Elliott and Ernie Elliott, Inc., visit