The Ferrari Sigma Grand Prix was a Formula 1 show car built by Pininfarina in 1969 and unveiled in Geneva on March 13. It was never intended for racing: the numerous fatal accidents involving Formula 1 drivers due to poor safety standards prompted the creation of a "car of the future." It featured a driver safety cell, multi-layer plastic fuel tanks, a fire suppression system, seat belts, and side pods behind the rear wheels to prevent wheel interlock. Designed by Paolo Martin, the car was based on the Ferrari 312, weighed 590 kg, and was powered by a 3.0-liter V12 producing 436 HP.
Summarized from the sources cited below; every figure in the text was automatically verified against the sources.
Learn moreConcept and creation · Safety innovations
Concept and creation
The impetus was the high number of fatal accidents among Formula 1 drivers amid inadequate safety standards. The Sigma was envisioned as a "car of the future" and was primarily meant to demonstrate new safety standards. It was built in 1969 by Pininfarina together with Revue Automobile; Paolo Martin designed it based on the Ferrari 312. The name originated with the 1963 PF Sigma, an earlier experimental safety vehicle by Pininfarina.
Safety innovations
The show car incorporated a wide array of innovations: a driver survival cell, multi-layer fuel tanks, tanks made of plastic, a fire extinguisher system, and a safety belt system. In addition, side pods projecting behind the rear wheels were designed to prevent wheel interlocking. The vehicle was never meant for racing, but rather to demonstrate how Formula 1 could be made safer.
Summarized from the cited sources; every figure was automatically verified against the sources.
Frequently asked questions about the Ferrari Sigma Grand Prix
When was the Ferrari Sigma Grand Prix raced?
The Ferrari Sigma Grand Prix was raced in 1969.
How much power does the Ferrari Sigma Grand Prix have?
Power of the Ferrari Sigma Grand Prix: 436 hp.
What engine does the Ferrari Sigma Grand Prix have?
Engine of the Ferrari Sigma Grand Prix: 3.0 V12 Ferrari 255C.
Who engineered the Ferrari Sigma Grand Prix?
Engineering of the Ferrari Sigma Grand Prix: Paolo Martin at Pininfarina.
Who drove the Ferrari Sigma Grand Prix?
Drivers of the Ferrari Sigma Grand Prix: Paul Frère.
How many races did the Ferrari Sigma Grand Prix win?
The Ferrari Sigma Grand Prix took 0 wins in 0 races.
