Final answer:
Janet Guthrie was the first woman to drive in the Indy 500, participating in the race from 1977 to 1979.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first woman to drive in the Indy 500 was Janet Guthrie. Guthrie made her debut at the famous race in 1977, driving a Wildcat chassis powered by a Cosworth engine. She went on to compete in the race for three consecutive years, from 1977 to 1979.
Guthrie's participation in the Indy 500 was a significant milestone for women in motorsports. Her achievement opened the door for other women to pursue racing careers and helped break down gender barriers in the sport.
Guthrie's success as a female race car driver also extends beyond the Indy 500. Before competing in the Indy 500, she became the first woman to race in the Daytona 500 in 1977. Her accomplishments have paved the way for many talented female drivers in the world of motorsports.