aerodynamics question

["Jack W. Drews" <vinttr4@geneseo.net>]

Question for my fellow tech freaks.

I understand that the frontal area that those little air molecules see is 
the total profile of the front of the car.

I also understand that the shape of the front changes the wind resistance 
(pointed object versus a brick).

my question is this:  ignoring the cooling situation, if you replace the 
grille in a TR4 with a flat panel, does this change the aerodynamic resistance?

The NASCAR guys tape off the front opening to go faster...........

uncle jack