Ferrari’s Technological Innovations Part 5: 1961 - Discovering Air as an Ally

Today's race cars are designed to maximize downforce for optimal performance. It’s incredible to think that before 1960, the potential of air resistance wasn't fully realized. In fact, early cars focused solely on reducing drag for maximum speed, neglecting the benefits downforce could provide in cornering. The last example of such ultra-aerodynamic cars was the Mercedes W196 R from 1954, streamlined and smooth like a bar of soap.