There’s a ton to be learned from race cars. For decades (upon decades upon decades), automotive manufacturers have sought to either win on Sunday in order to sell on Monday, or stress test parts on the track to discover whether those parts are capable of withstanding the less demanding rigors of the street. But that’s not all race cars are good for. Simply looking at the engine bay of a pro race car can teach you a thing or two that can be put into practice on your street car (or SCCA competition car) – something a recent article on Hagerty.com/media recently covered.

“There is something about the prioritization of function over form in the engine compartments of most race cars that turns the spaces into art,” wrote Kyle Smith. “Any detail-loving person can appreciate them, but especially DIY and at-home mechanics: These engine bays are often the antithesis of what we usually get to work on. Race machines are built with service in mind, and that focus removes a lot of frustration for the mechanic.”

Smith breaks down those lessons into categories: tidy organization, safety wire, labels, breathers, and color.

“Engine compartments can be busy, with hoses and cables going this way and that for various pumps and control modules,” said Smith. “In race cars, engine bays are laid out system-by-system, and this arrangement lends itself to a more thoughtful installation that maximizes function while minimizing space. In short, the engine bay is all tidied up.”

Just about everyone in the Club with a dedicated race car has stared at their engine bay in disgust, wishing the wiring and hoses looked as good as it does for the pros. This article breaks down the process, making this article as useful for those with a trailered race car as it is for someone with a mildly modded street beast.

Check out the article here, then head to your garage with newfound inspiration and get to work.

Photo courtesy Hagerty / Kyle Smith