Mussel Bay

Classic F1

Eligible cars

We have tried to identify all the eligible cars from the period – see below – and these will be the only ones permitted to race. If you think of any additions to the list then please let us know so their suitability can be assessed.

Please note that we are attempting to recreate a genuine liveried grid – there were a large number of later re-issues with fake liveries – we would prefer not to run these if possible but they will be allowed if you have nothing else suitable.

You are at liberty, and indeed encouraged, to create other genuine liveries with the eligible cars. If you have a Niki Lauda Ferrari and want to repaint it as a Clay Regazzoni one then please do so. If you want to turn it into a different car that is fine as well - the Brabham BT44 could be repainted as a passable imitation of a BRM P201 for example.

The more variety of genuine cars and liveries the better!

Hopefully a very wide range of cars will be competitive but should any one car threaten to dominate and destroy this variety we reserve the right to handicap or remove it from the eligibility list. This would be done very reluctantly and only as a last resort.

Motor(s)

Only two motors were fitted to these cars when new and they are the only ones allowed – Johnson 111 and Mabuchi small open can.

These are reference numbers E9 and E10 in Roger Gillham’s book if you have a copy.
Later model enclosed Mabuchis are not allowed.

Body/chassis

The original body and chassis (where fitted) must be used – permitted modifications are listed below:

Permitted modifications
Rear End

As most of these cars had poor quality plastic pinions, gears and wheels the whole rear end may be replaced with any modern stuff you choose.

The following may be replaced:
Axle bearings
Pinion
Crownwheel
Rear axle
Rear wheels
Tyres

The dimensions of wheels, axles and tyres must remain as close as possible to the original specifications and you will be required to produce the original items for comparison at scrutineering if requested. We recognise that modern gear is unlikely to be exactly the same dimensions as the original but doubling the axle length will definitely mean a trip to the stewards’ investigation bench!

Front End

These cars also came from a time when the front axles were raised to negotiate banked curves and consequently the wheels are usually waving about 3 inches off the track. You are at liberty to modify the front mounts as necessary so that the axles are stabilised and the front wheels touch and roll.

You may also replace the front wheels, tyres and axle if this helps achieve the above. Please try and keep as close to the original sizes as possible but it is accepted that slightly larger diameter tyres may be necessary. So long as everything looks more or less in proportion we are not going to be as strict as the FIA with the dimensions! The spirit of the rules is more important than the strict letter of the law.

The guide blade and wiring from motor may also be replaced with something more suitable if necessary.

Race Format

Due to the age of the motors and their tendency to get a bit warm, race distance will be 10 laps only with two full sets of heats if time allows.

In the interests of variety and reliability you may use a different car for any heat if you wish.