The BRM P160 was one of the most successful and enduring Formula One cars ever produced by British Racing Motors. Designed by Tony Southgate and powered by BRM’s charismatic 3.0-litre V12, the P160 evolved continuously through the B, C, D and E specifications, remaining competitive across four seasons at a time when Formula One was changing at remarkable speed.
Building on the foundations laid by the P153, the P160 combined a refined chassis with the unmistakable sound and power delivery of BRM’s 48-valve V12. While many rivals relied on the ubiquitous Cosworth DFV, BRM continued its tradition of designing and building both chassis and engine in-house, creating one of the most distinctive Grand Prix cars of the era.
The P160 enjoyed considerable success, claiming three Formula One World Championship victories. Jo Siffert secured its maiden win at the 1971 Austrian Grand Prix, before Peter Gethin produced one of the most memorable finishes in Formula One history at the 1971 Italian Grand Prix. At Monza, Gethin crossed the line just 0.010 seconds ahead of Ronnie Peterson in what remains the closest finish in World Championship history. The car returned to the top step once more in 1972, when Jean-Pierre Beltoise mastered treacherous wet conditions to win the Monaco Grand Prix, before adding another victory at the Dutch Grand Prix in the distinctive Marlboro colours.
Throughout its career, the P160 was driven by an exceptional roster of Grand Prix talent, including Jo Siffert, Peter Gethin, Jean-Pierre Beltoise, Clay Regazzoni and Niki Lauda. Lauda joined BRM in 1973, producing a series of eye-catching performances that convinced Enzo Ferrari to sign the young Austrian—a move that would ultimately lead to three Formula One World Championships.
With its elegant lines, unmistakable V12 soundtrack and continuous technical development, the P160 became BRM’s definitive Formula One car of the early 1970s. Competitive across multiple seasons and responsible for some of the team’s greatest victories, it remains one of the most important and successful Grand Prix machines ever to emerge from Bourne.