Champion was one of the few surviving companies after the hobby virtually collapsed in 1968. The era of better handling, more reliable slot cars had begun. By 1970, the National Competition Committee had set nationwide racing rules, that included low-cost racing in the form of "groups", from "Group 12" to "Group 20". The numbers reflected the original retail prices set for the cars. As can be seen here, it did not take long for inflation to creep in. | Los Angeles Slot Car Museum - LASCM