The Holden star wrapped up the 2014 series at Phillip Island last month, but had to wait until after the season's final race yesterday to officially be crowned champion.
His historic achievement, however, was overshadowed by a wild storm that lashed Sydney Olympic Park and forced the 74-lap feature to be abandoned just before 7.30pm (NZT).
A safety car was called in 41 laps into the race, as cars started to slide across the street circuit and dangerously close to concrete barriers. Red flags were eventually waived with 29 laps remaining.
Whincup now stands alone as the winner of most titles in the 54-year history of Australian touring car/V8 Supercars championships.
He surpasses greats Mark Skaife, Dick Johnson and the late Ian Geoghegan, who all collected five trophies.
He also equals Geoghegan's record for most successive championships with four.
Ford star Winterbottom, who led the series for several rounds earlier in the year, finishes the year third on the drivers' standings after his 19th-place yesterday.
Volvo sensation Scott McLaughlin started the race from pole position after a blistering qualifying lap couldn't continue that form in the feature race finishing eighth.
The Kiwi was fastest in yesterday's Top 10 shootout and ended the year tied with Whincup for most poles this season - 10, scoring a bonus A$10,000 ($10,800) for the feat.
- AAP
