Not only can a car be a six-wheeler like the Mercedes G-Class, but in its time, three-axle cars even raced in Formula 1. We are talking about the famous Tyrell P34 from 1976, depicted on the Turbo insert No. 43.
The Tyrell P34 was born in the mind of designer Derek Gardner. He took advantage of the fact that Formula 1 regulations did not restrict either the minimum size of the front tires or the number of axles on a car.
This idea made sense because four small wheels in the front significantly improved the car’s aerodynamics. They were placed almost level with the front wing, optimizing the airflow along the sides.
In addition, tests showed that the six-wheeled car was very maneuverable and braked better. However, the front suspension design proved to be quite complex. In other aspects, the car was not much different from the four-wheeled Tyrells.
It was equipped with a 3.0-liter Ford V8 Cosworth, initially developing 485 hp, and later 510 hp.
Tyrell P34 performed well in the 1976 championship, and at the Swedish Grand Prix, the drivers took the top two spots on the podium. There were also several other podium finishes, and Jody Scheckter became third in the season standings. In 1977, the six-wheeled car was not as successful, although its aerodynamics were improved. Nevertheless, drivers Ronnie Peterson and Patrick Depailler still secured second and third places at the Grand Prix.
However, as truly outstanding results were not achieved, Tyrell returned to the classic four-wheeled cars. Meanwhile, the Tyrell P34s became collector’s items and delight the eyes at various car shows and speed festivals.