Brabham · 1978

Brabham BT46B

The fan car. Won its only race, then banned. Most controversial F1 car ever.

Ford Cosworth DFV 3.0L V8 · 480 HP

Races
1
Wins
1
Poles
1
Win Rate
100.0%

Brabham BT46B — Full Analysis

The Brabham BT46B is one of the most significant Formula 1 cars in Brabham\'s history. Introduced in 1978, this car represented Brabham\'s technical philosophy of the era, combining Ford Cosworth DFV 3.0L V8 power with aerodynamic development that reflected the regulations and competitive landscape of the time.

Powered by the Ford Cosworth DFV 3.0L V8 producing 480 HP, the Brabham BT46B competed in 1 races, achieving 1 victories. The fan car. Won its only race, then banned. Most controversial F1 car ever.

The car weighed 575 kg and was capable of reaching 310 km/h on the fastest circuits. It secured 1 pole positions, demonstrating exceptional one-lap pace. The Brabham BT46B was a product of its era — the technical regulations, tyre compounds, and competitive environment all shaped its design and development.

Brabham\'s engineering team worked extensively on the Brabham BT46B\'s aerodynamic package, seeking to maximise downforce while minimising drag. The car\'s suspension setup was carefully calibrated to work with the tyres of the era, and the engine installation was optimised for both performance and reliability. The Brabham BT46B represents a chapter in Brabham\'s long Formula 1 history — a history that spans 30 seasons and includes 2 Constructors\' Championships and 4 Drivers\' Championships.

In the context of Brabham\'s broader F1 programme, the Brabham BT46B was part of a continuous development process. The lessons learned from this car informed the design of subsequent models, contributing to Brabham\'s ongoing technical evolution. The car\'s performance data — lap times, tyre degradation rates, fuel consumption figures — all fed into the team\'s knowledge base and helped shape future development directions.

Technical Specifications

CarBrabham BT46B
Year1978
EngineFord Cosworth DFV 3.0L V8
Power Output480 HP
Weight575 kg
Top Speed310 km/h
Races Entered1
Race Wins1
Pole Positions1
Win Rate100.0%
Pole Rate100.0%
ConstructorBrabham

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