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Ferrari 312 T3

Ferrari 312 T3 (1978)

Photo: Prova MO · CC BY-SA 4.0

Debut1978
EngineFlat-12 (180°)
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The 312 T3 entered service at the third race of the 1978 season for Villeneuve and Reutemann. The flat-12 engine producing around 515 bhp was the same one used since 1970, but the monocoque, suspension, and bodywork were new and tailored to the Michelin tires. Against the ground-breaking ground-effect Lotus 79, it stood no chance. Reutemann won four races, Villeneuve claimed his maiden victory at the season finale in Canada, and Ferrari finished second in the Constructors' Championship.

Summarized from the sources cited below; every figure in the text was automatically verified against the sources.

Good to know

  • The T3 had a flatter top surface of the bodywork to direct more airflow to the rear wing.
  • The ground-effect Lotus 79 beat all rivals so effortlessly that Ferrari could only capitalize on retirements by the Lotus cars.
  • Reutemann moved to Lotus for 1979; Jody Scheckter took over his cockpit.
Learn moreConsolidation rather than dominance

Consolidation rather than dominance

The 312 T3 received an entirely new chassis with a new monocoque and revised suspension, engineered for Michelin tires. The bodywork looked visibly different, with a flatter top surface to improve airflow to the rear wing. All that effort was of little help, as the pioneering Lotus 79 dominated the field. Villeneuve won for the first time at the season finale in Canada, his home race; it was more a season of consolidation.

Summarized from the cited sources; every figure was automatically verified against the sources.

Frequently asked questions about the Ferrari 312 T3

When was the Ferrari 312 T3 raced?

The Ferrari 312 T3 made its racing debut in 1978.

How much power does the Ferrari 312 T3 have?

Power of the Ferrari 312 T3: around 515 bhp.

What engine does the Ferrari 312 T3 have?

Engine of the Ferrari 312 T3: Flat-twelve engine. It sits behind the seats as a mid-engine.

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