Williams FW07

Constructor
williams
Years
1979–1982
Designers
Patrick Head, Neil Oatley, Frank Dernie
Engine
Ford Cosworth DFV V8
Configuration
90-degree V8, 2993 cc, naturally aspirated
Power
505 bhp (500-510 bhp at 11,400 rpm with the Judd-prepared DFVs from 1980)
Chassis
aluminium monocoque
Gearbox
Hewland FGB, later FGA 400 5-speed manual
Suspension
Lower wishbones with inboard springs front and rear
Brakes
disc
Weight
579 kg
Wheelbase
Tyres
Goodyear, Michelin
Races
29
Wins
10
Poles
5
Drivers' titles
1
Constructors' titles
2
Specification confidence
high

The Lotus 79 concept, engineered properly and made stiff enough to hold its skirts on the ground

Dernie's work on keeping the skirts sealed at all times, worth a claimed 30 per cent in downforce

Williams took the 79's idea and out-built its inventor. The FW07 turned a team that had never won a race into a two-time constructors' champion in three seasons and set the pattern for Williams for the next twenty years: someone else's concept, executed better.

43 races, 15 wins, 8 poles. Jones's 1980 drivers' title; constructors' championships in 1980 and 1981.