A 1955 Cooper-Bristol T40 – the first Formula 1 car to be driven by three-time champion Jack Brabham – is on the market for £298,000.
A rare piece of car-racing history, the T40 was also the first F1 car to be kitted out with a rear-engine layout.
Fitted with a Bristol 2.0-litre, six-cylinder engine, it made its debut at the 1955 British Grand Prix at Aintree.
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Unfortunately it didn’t have the hoped-for success and qualified in 25th position, 27 seconds behind Stirling Moss on pole.
It then made a dreadful start to the race, with mechanics having to push it off the line.
But, despite its inauspicious start, the car’s forward-thinking engineering ensured it had a long-lasting impact on the sport and Brabham continued to race the T40 at other events around the world.
The iconic vehicle is now for sale at auction in Paris for £298,000 (350,000), as reported by Luxury Auto News.
A spokesperson for RM Sotheby’s, who is hosting the sale, said: “This is a historically significant automobile that can be appreciated for its place in Formula 1 both on and off the racetrack.
“Playing a significant role in the career of three-time Formula 1 World Champion Jack Brabham, this Cooper-Bristol T40 is not only the first Formula 1 car to be driven by Brabham, it is also the first Formula 1 car to boast a rear-engine layout.
“A proven entry in highly desirable events like the Goodwood Revival and Monaco Historic Grand Prix, it was recently sent for a full engine and braking system rebuild. Itt is accompanied by a valid FIA Historic Technical Passport, which expires in June 2025.”
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