Innovative Icons: Formula 1's Diverse Cars during the 1970s to 1980s

Weird ONES - In the rich tapestry of Formula 1 history, the current regulations confine the sport within stringent boundaries, leaving little room for the groundbreaking innovation that defined its early years. Some of the most eccentric Formula 1 car designs hail from the 1970s and early 1980s.

A portrayal of the ambiance of Formula 1 racing in the 1970s, brimming with diverse racing car designs. (Picture from: AutoSportFoto.sk)

Let's embark on a journey down memory lane to explore some of the most unconventional creations that once graced the tracks.

1. March 711

The March 711, a peculiar-looking vehicle designed by Robin Herd and Geoff Ferris for the 1971 season, continued its presence throughout 1972. With a front wing resembling either a tea tray or surfboard, it may have raised eyebrows for its unconventional aesthetics.

The 1971 March 711 had a distinctive front wing that looked like a serving tray. (Picture from: Wikipedia)

However, despite its peculiar appearance, the car showcased impressive speed, propelling Ronnie Peterson to five podium finishes and a second-place standing in the 1971 drivers' standings.

2. Eifelland Type 21

The Eifelland Type 21 of 1972 was one of the strangest-looking cars ever to compete in Formula 1. The project was funded by the German Eifelland caravan company, at the behest of its boss Günther Henerici, a racing enthusiast. Eifelland had previously sponsored the promising German driver Rolf Stommelen in Junior Formulae and had decided to enter Formula 1 with their driver.

The 1972 Eiflland Type 21 featured an unusual single rearview mirror positioned directly in front of the driver. (Picture from: Story-Cars)

The Type 21 F1 racer was a March 721 chassis number four. All resemblance to the factory Marches was lost when Eifelland designer Luigi Colani penned the extraordinary bodywork for the new car. Colani was an unusual designer, believing that every surface should be curved. The racing car featured an unusual single rearview mirror positioned directly in front of the driver—a design choice that likely didn't contribute to enhanced visibility.

3. Ligier JS5

When talking about the ugliest F1 car in history, the Ligier JS5 is definitely in the top nomination. The Ligier JS5 is very famous among F1 fans because the shape of the car is really very strange, because it has an airbox that has a very unreasonable shape.

1976 Ligier JS5 with a distinctive, oversized air intake. (Picture from: Fandom)

This JS5 was Ligier's debut F1 racer took to the tracks in 1976 with a distinctive, oversized air intake that gave it an uncanny resemblance to a teapot. Although it might have seemed like the creation of a cartoonist, Jacques Laffite managed to secure three podium finishes while piloting this peculiar machine.

4. Tyrrell P34

The Tyrrell P34 is undoubtedly one of the most eccentric F1 cars ever conceived, designed by Derek Gardner, Tyrrell's chief designer. Sporting six wheels—four small ones at the front and two large ones at the back—this design aimed to reduce drag and increase the overall contact patch of the front tires.

The 1977 Tyrrell P34 with 6 wheels. (Picture from: MotorBiscuit)

Despite its unorthodox appearance, the P34 proved successful, competing in 30 races in 1976 and 1977, achieving one victory and 13 podiums. However, the team faced challenges in further developing the design, leading to its abandonment in 1978.

5. Brabham BT46B

Gordon Murray's 'fan car,' the Brabham BT46B, caused quite a stir when it made its debut at the 1978 Swedish Grand Prix. Developed in response to challenges recreating the ground effect of the Lotus 79'.

The 1978 Brabham BT46B featured with fan to cool the engine at rear. (Picture from: Otosia)

It was modified version of the BT46 featured with a masive fan to cool the engine and generate substantial downforce. Despite controversy and subsequent banning, Niki Lauda's victory in the race remained.

6. Ensign N179

The Ensign N179, designed by Dave Baldwin, was utilized by Ensign F1 Racing Team during the 1979 Formula One season. Featuring a bizarre 'step-ladder' front end and a new system of front radiators, the N179 aimed to cool the engine and enhance underside downforce.

The 1979 Ensign N179 featured with a bizarre 'step-ladder' at front. (Picture from: F1Technical.net)

However, issues with engine cooling led to excessive heat in the cockpit, and despite its peculiar aesthetics, the design quickly fell out of favor.

7. Williams FW07D

In 1981, both Ferrari and Williams experimented with six-wheeled cars. The Williams FW07D, tested by Alan Jones at Donington Park, featured four driven rear wheels and two non-driven front wheels. This design transitioned to the FW08B, maintaining six wheels. However, both cars never saw competitive action as the FIA promptly banned six-wheeled vehicles.

The 1983 Williams FW07D with 6 wheels. (Picture from: SnapLap)

These unique and unconventional Formula 1 creations not only pushed the boundaries of design but also added an element of excitement and surprise to the sport's history. While many of these designs were short-lived, they remain indelible in the memories of racing enthusiasts as testaments to the quest for innovation in the world of Formula 1. *** [EKA [04032016] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | STORY-CARS | WIKIPEDIA | MOTORBISCUIT | SNAPLAP | MEDIUM ]

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