The Infamous Tyrrell P34 Six-Wheeler Formula 1 Car (video)

A Radical Approach to Going Faster

The P34's most striking feature is undoubtedly its four front wheels. The idea was simple, with two more front tyres the contact patch with the road would obviously double, hence more grip. This unique idea was a brainchild of Derek Gardner, and the P34 made its debut in the 1976 season. While it wasn't the first F1 car to experiment with the idea, it was the only one that actually made it to the grid of a Grand Prix.

The front wheels, all four of them, were responsible for turning. The steering wheel connected directly to the front axle, with a relay system linking the front wheels to the second set. This intricate system ensured that while all four wheels turned, they did so at different rates, maintaining the car's balance and agility. With four tires at the front, engineers had to rethink brake bias. The solution was a system that automatically adjusted to provide less braking bite on the very front wheels, ensuring optimal braking stability. While it did 

Driving the P34 is an experience like no other. On the track, the car feels seamless, and despite its unconventional design, it's surprisingly intuitive. However, it's also a reminder of the raw, unfiltered nature of 70s racing. With almost 500 horsepower at its disposal and speeds reaching up to 180 miles per hour, the P34 demands respect and skill. 

While the P34's design was radical, it wasn't the only attempt at reimagining the F1 car. Other teams had previously experimented with six-wheel designs, though none actually raced. While Today's F1 cars might be technological marvels, the P34 stands as a testament to a time when engineers were unafraid to think outside the box and challenge the very fundamentals of race car design.

In conclusion, the P34 six-wheeler is more than just a race car; it's a piece of F1 history. It reminds us of a time when the lines between madness and genius were blurred, and the result was nothing short of spectacular. As the world of motorsport continues to evolve, the P34 serves as a beacon of inspiration, urging us to push boundaries and redefine the impossible.

Ben Collins got the chance to lap the Tyrrell P34 at Donington Park, and what an experience that must have been. Check it out below!