1958 Formula II

The Porsche-Behra Formula II 1958 is a classic race car with advanced technical features that make it an exceptional machine on the track. The car was built by Porsche for racing legend Jean Behra, who drove it to victory in the 1958 Formula Two season.

At the heart of the Porsche-Behra Formula II 1958 is its powerful 1.5-liter air-cooled four-cylinder engine. This engine was a development of the 550 Spyder's engine and featured four overhead camshafts and dual ignition. It was capable of producing up to 149 horsepower and could reach a top speed of over 150 mph.

The car's lightweight construction was also a major factor in its performance on the track. It featured a tubular space frame chassis that weighed only 69 kg, with fiberglass bodywork that gave it a streamlined shape. The car's weight distribution was also optimized for racing, with a 45/55 front-to-rear distribution that helped to improve its handling and cornering ability.

The suspension system of the Porsche-Behra Formula II 1958 was also a critical component of its performance. The car featured double wishbone suspension at the front with coil springs and telescopic dampers, while the rear suspension was a torsion bar setup that helped to deliver a smooth and stable ride. The car's brakes were also advanced for the time, with four-wheel hydraulic disc brakes that provided excellent stopping power.

The car's transmission was another crucial element of its performance, with a four-speed manual gearbox that was specially designed for racing. The gearbox featured straight-cut gears that minimized friction and allowed for quick and precise shifts, while a limited-slip differential helped to deliver power to the wheels more efficiently.

Other key features of the Porsche-Behra Formula II 1958 included its adjustable Koni shock absorbers, which could be fine-tuned to suit different track conditions, and its lightweight magnesium alloy wheels. The car's cockpit was also designed with racing in mind, with a minimalist layout that focused on functionality and driver comfort.

Overall, the Porsche-Behra Formula II 1958 was a groundbreaking race car that set new standards for performance and innovation in its era. Its advanced technical features and impressive track record make it a true icon of motorsport history, and a testament to Porsche's engineering excellence.