Top Fuel has always been expensive.
Today it takes everything you have to race just like it did twenty or thirty years ago.
Things have changed w/ the NHRA and they are kind of @ fault for the small car count.
I saw it start w/ the % change, Engine retention devices, -20 suits certification issues, oil-down penalties, pre-acceptance by the NHRA, forged blocks, all hoses must be pressurized tested and tagged, valve cover restraints, heat-treated chassis/back half, roll-cage titanium plate, rear wing must be purchased through one company and angle is pre-set, 75 minute turn around and many more if I think a little bit. But take a look @ that short list of those few requirements and you are in to $12,000.
Insurance companies cringe @ the thought of cars going 330 mph side by side so they will insure but someone will pay those premiums.
I agree w/ Dan Olson but will racers @ the top slow down to save money?