A detailed look at the H16-engined Lotus 43 BRM ...
One of the most complicated engines ever built was the BRM H16 produced for the 1966 Formula 1 season when the new three-litre regulations came into force. BRM attempted to cut a few corners by simply merging two of the existing 1.5-litre V8 engines to create a sixteen-cylinder engine with two crankshafts and eight camshafts. Not surprisingly, it was nowhere near as straightforward and the engine proved to be too heavy and very unreliable. It was nevertheless used by both the BRM works team and Team Lotus in the Type 43 BRM. This featured a Maurice Philippe designed monocoque, which used the compact H16 as a fully stressed member. Driven by Jim Clark, Graham Hill and Peter Arundell, the Lotus 43 only managed to reach the finish once in six outings. Thanks to Clark's sheer brilliance that one finish was a win in the 1966 American Grand Prix at Watkins Glen. This remains the only ever victory for the BRM H16 engine. Replaced by the now legendary Type 49, the two examples were modified for use in F5000 complete with a Ford V8 and sold to privateers. The Watkins Glen winning example has now been completely restored. This was a true labour of love and took the better part of eight years. Fortunately the car was ready in time for the recent Goodwood Revival where Jim Clark was celebrated. The current owner demonstrated the restored Lotus 43 BRM, which was the first time a BRM H16-engined Lotus was driven in public since 1967. We captured every detail in our 25-shot gallery, which also includes pictures of the engine in pieces while being rebuilt by experts Hall & Hall a few years ago.
Enjoy the links:
1966 - 1967 Lotus 43 BRM - Images, Specifications and Information
If you should see a man walking down a crowded street talking aloud to himself, don't run in the opposite direction, but run towards him, because he's a poet. You have nothing to fear from the poet - but the truth.
(Ted Joans)
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Originally Posted by pimento
