Part-time Daredevils Required
Current F1 cars reach 230 mph, especially at fast tracks like Monza and Baku.
Cars take corners up to 180 mph, and drivers endure 4-6 G of lateral force.
Drivers lose 6.6-8.8 lbs in body weight per race due to extreme G-forces and cockpit heat.
They need to be in peak physical shape to handle the physical strain.
However, the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s were considered the golden yet deadly years of Formula 1, with minimal safety regulations.
Engines doubled in size, and cars added wings, making them faster but more hazardous.
Between 1950 and 1960, 29 drivers lost their lives. In 1968 alone, four drivers died.
Despite the dangers, the drivers raced with raw talent and charisma, often paying the ultimate price.
In the 1964 Mexico World Championship, a dramatic race saw Lorenzo Bandini collide with Graham Hill, Jim Clark’s engine fail, and John Surtees win the title amidst fans storming the track.
In 1976, Niki Lauda nearly lost his life when his car burst into flames, highlighting the dangers of that era.
At the 1978 Italian Grand Prix, Bernie Ecclestone and Dr Sid Watkins faced resistance from Monza organisers regarding outdated medical facilities.
Dr Watkins demanded modern trauma care and quicker emergency response at the track, which is crucial for driver survival.
F1 fans are an emotional bunch, but nothing compares to Italian fans.
Ecclestone and Watkins threatened to cancel the Grand Prix unless the organisers implemented proper medical facilities immediately.
The Italian organisers faced the possibility of cancelling the race and the potential eruptive behaviour of the fans.
The organisers complied, marking a turning point in Formula 1’s commitment to safety.
This moment reinforced the importance of medical facilities in F1 and set a new standard for the sport.
The sport has come a long way, with modern safety regulations drastically improving driver protection compared to the dangerous ‘golden years.’
Historically, Formula 1 drivers, particularly during the golden years of the ’60s and ’70s, were notorious for prioritising speed over safety.
Legends like James Hunt and Niki Lauda often pushed the limits, knowing the risks involved.
The allure of a faster car, even at the cost of personal safety, was part of the sport’s dangerous charm.
Today’s drivers, while still adrenaline junkies at heart, benefit from vastly improved safety standards.
Yet, if given the choice, many would still lean towards a faster car, trusting modern technology and safety measures to protect them, as the thrill of speed remains irresistible in F1.
‘Back in the golden years of F1, drivers weren’t just racers — they were part-time daredevils and full-time adrenaline junkies.’
Please note – Some images displayed may be for illustrative purposes only and may not depict the actual vehicle.
Users are advised not to copy, reproduce, or remarket any content from this site without obtaining prior permission from the listing owner.
While we strive for accuracy, errors may occur. We strongly recommend verifying all details directly with the listing owner before making any commitments.
