Preheat oven to 350.

Cream the sugar and oil in a large bowl.

Add eggs mixing them In well

Combine the cocoa powder and flour.

Add the buttermilk and flour mixture alternately to the creamed mixture. Mixing well after each addition.

Stir in the vanilla and food coloring. Beat well.

Combine the vinegar and baking soda. Add to the batter and beat well.

Pour in 3 well greased and floured 8 inch round cake pans.

Bake for 30-35 minutes.

Remove from the oven and let cool.

Layer with frosting, cover the tops and sides.

Decorate with pecans if desired.