A 1955 Cooper-Bristol T40, the first Formula One car ever driven by legendary Australian Sir Jack Brabham, is currently up for sale.
This iconic piece of motorsport history played a pivotal role in launching Brabham's illustrious career and represents a significant milestone in the evolution of Formula One car design.
The Cooper-Bristol T40 is notable for its rear-engine layout, a configuration that would become the standard in F1.
Although the car retired from the 1955 British GP due to overheating, it set the stage for future F1 car designs.
Sir Jack Brabham's impact on motorsport extends far beyond his driving career. He founded Motor Racing Developments LTD (MRD), commonly known as Brabham, which was responsible for numerous innovations, including the groundbreaking BT46B Fan Car, carbon brakes, full-width rear wings and carbon-fibre composites.
This 1955 Cooper-Bristol T40 represents a unique opportunity to own a piece of motorsport history.
It serves as a reminder of Sir Jack Brabham's remarkable achievements and the enduring legacy of the Brabham brand. The car is currently available for purchase through RM Sotheby's private sales page, with an asking price of €350,000 or around NZ$630,000.
In Brabham's own words: "The specialised press spoke of a battle of champions, and it was certainly an important step in my career. Without that race, I would definitely have gone back to Australia."
