Footwork FA12
The Footwork FA12 was a Formula 1 racing car of the English team Arrows, which should be used from 1991 to 1993 with a Porsche redesigned V12 engine. Designer of the Footwork chassis was Alan Jenkins.
History
In 1989 it was announced Porsche strive after winning the drivers' world championship with the turbo engine and chassis built by McLaren in the years 1984 to 1986 financed by TAG to a renewed commitment to Formula 1. In contrast to the turbo technology used at that time demanded the FISA regulations aspirated engine and a maximum displacement of 3.5 liters, so it was not possible to rely on proven technology, and within a short time a new engine had to be developed.
In early 1990, the Japanese owner of Footwork, Wataru Ohashi, the motor secured exclusively by Porsche and took the financial risk. The chassis manufactured Arrows. As a driver Michele Alboreto and Alex Caffi were committed. Porsche entered - in contrast to the commitment at McLaren - along with Footwork as candidates.
In the 1991 season, the FA 12 was launched. However, the car proved to be immature. This affected both the motor and the built of Footwork Arrows or six-speed gearbox and the chassis. The unit lacked clear performance, also it was a result of his weight to handling problems. In addition there were massive problems with the oil pressure, which led to numerous engine failures at the first GP weekends. Often the vehicles remained lying after a few rounds.
Caffi could not qualify for the first four races. After a traffic accident replaced him Stefan Johansson, without being able to improve the results. The non- qualifying both drivers at the Grand Prix of Brazil was sobering. In the middle of the season, after the French Grand Prix in July, Porsche withdrew from the project. Arrows set for the rest of the season on a Ford aggregates. In this constellation, although regularly managed to qualify for the race, but except repeated courses of Michele Alboreto seventh there was no Constructors points recorded.
Specifications
- Historic Racing Car
- Formula 1 racing cars of the 1991 season