F1, rally, A1, stock car racing, and even karting are all types of motorsports.

Car races have existed since before the 20th century, but modern races with internal combustion-engined cars really did not begin until the 1930s. Famous race cars of the 30s included models from Mercedes-Benz, Auto Union, and Bugatti. These grand-prix cars had in excess of 600 hp, by way of multiple-stage superchargers. At that time (1928-1930 and also in 1934-1936), maximum weight limits were imposed (750 kg). Today, the rule is the opposite, as a lighter car is faster, and there are minimum weight requirements.

In Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, the most popular type of professional racing is Formula 1 (F1). In the US, NASCAR and Indy are the most popular. Certain regions are most famous for racing, mainly in the south. Other types of professional racing in the US include outlaw and variants of off-road racing.

Streetracing is done pretty much everywhere in the world - inevitably each country and city has its own car subculture, which always includes those that are thrilled by the prospect of public speeding and racing. Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates, is well-known for its late-night racing scene, with its large population of supercars and American V8s, oil money, and wide open roads with few trees.

In Italy, the historic Mille Miglia race (translated it means "1,000 miles") is still held each year. In it, historic Alfa Romeos, FIATs, Ferraris, Maseratis, and other classic supercars tear through windy village roads of Umbria and Tuscany.