Legendary F1 designer Adrian Newey reveals his favourite Formula 1 cars ft. Lotus 49b

The legendary Formula 1 designer Adrian Newey recently shared his thoughts on some of the most influential and iconic cars that have shaped his illustrious career. Newey, who has been instrumental in securing 12 constructors’ titles, 13 drivers’ championships, and over 200 Grand Prix victories with teams like Williams, McLaren, and Red Bull, has always been fascinated by innovative automotive designs.

As he prepares to step down from his role at Red Bull in early 2025, Newey took a moment to reflect on the cars that have left a lasting impact on him. Among the vehicles that Newey holds in high regard, the Lotus 49 stands out as a significant influence. Introduced during the 1967 F1 season, the Lotus 49 was powered by the revolutionary Ford Cosworth DFV engine.

This car captured Newey's imagination when he was just eight years old, setting him on a path toward a career in motorsport design. The impact of the Lotus 49 on Newey was so profound that he now owns a 1968-spec Lotus 49B, a variation that introduced aerofoil wings to Formula 1. Newey even had the opportunity to drive this historic car at the Monaco Grand Prix.

Newey also loves Bluebird CN7

Newey’s appreciation for innovative designs doesn’t end with the Lotus 49. He also admires the Chaparral wing car from the mid-1960s and the Lotus 79, a ground-effect car that dominated the 1978 F1 season.

Interestingly, Newey’s admiration for groundbreaking automotive engineering extends beyond the realm of Formula 1. He expressed great respect for the Bluebird CN7, a land-speed record car from the mid-1960s.

Newey described the Bluebird as "absolutely astounding" and noted that it was more advanced than many Formula 1 cars of its time. The Bluebird was the first car to effectively harness ground effect principles, using ventures to enhance its performance—a concept that has become a cornerstone of modern F1 design.