J. Pat Carter / AP

Mark Martin during NASCAR media day in Daytona Beach, Fla., as drivers and teams prepare for the Daytona 500 auto race.

“Man, it means the world to me,” he said. “It’s an opportunity of a lifetime. I never dreamed it would work out this way, but when I made the decision to leave Joe Gibbs Racing, it was solely based on the fact that I was going to be teammates with Mark Martin. Then the merger come about with DEI and it kind of caught me off guard.

“I’m more excited about this year than I’ve ever been. There’s a lot of history there with the No. 8 and with DEI company. I’m just looking to make the best of the season and learn as much as I can from Mark Martin.”

With all his experience, Martin loves the idea of being a mentor to young drivers.

“I answer their questions and, from time to time, I talk to them about history,” said Martin, who split time with rookie Regan Smith last year. “I think it’s very important and I set an example for them, which is more important. They watch, observe and I think that’s more important than anything.”

Almirola appreciates the knowledge he can glean from Martin.

“I think the biggest thing about Mark Martin is that he’s always accessible,” he said. “I don’t think I’ve called him and him not answer the phone or call me back within 10 minutes. At any given point, at any time, I can always pick up the phone and call him, ask him for advice, tell him how my day’s going, tell him I miss his voice, whatever. He’s always there to listen, talk and help me with whatever I need help with.”

The 49-year-old Martin, who nearly won the Daytona 500 last year, is happy to be racing on his own terms.

“Last year was the best year of my entire life, and I’m even more excited about 2008,” said Martin, grinning. I’m going to run 26 (Sprint Cup) races, exactly the same schedule as last year. And I’m doing five Busch races for Rick Hendrick and Dale Earnhardt Jr. It’s a real pleasure. I have great respect for Dale Jr.”

As for his future, Martin shrugged.

“I’m gonna do it in 09, that I know,” he said. “I don’t know about beyond, but I’m going to enjoy driving that 8 car while I can.”