What is the speed of a Formula car?
3 Answers
F1 Formula cars have a top speed of 350 km/h: F1 cars: The top speed of an F1 car can reach 350 km, but due to track conditions, fuel load, and tires, F1 cars are not the fastest cars on Earth; F1 cars are not tools for creating top speeds but are sports equipment. Therefore, from the beginning, F1 cars do not pursue the highest speed but the highest RPM. Currently disclosed figures show that Ferrari and BMW engines have exceeded 18,000 RPM. Factors affecting speed: For an F1 car to achieve its top speed, it also depends on track conditions. In the world, only three tracks—Nürburgring in Germany, Monza in Italy, and Spa in Belgium—can allow the highest speeds. These tracks are also known as the world's three fastest circuits.
Witnessing the F1 cars' top speed tests at Monza last time was absolutely breathtaking! These beasts with their hybrid V6 engines hit 378km/h, rivaling high-speed rail. However, race averages are heavily constrained by corners - Monaco GP averages just 160km/h. The speed gap between series is huge: F2 tops at 320km/h while Formula E's FE is capped at 240km/h due to street circuits. Tire wear progressively slows cars until pitstop refreshes their pace. Safety-wise, the HALO cockpit adds weight but saved Leclerc's life in that horrific crash.
When working at the racetrack, I often record measured data from different race cars. Current F1 engines have reached a top speed of 372 km/h on the main straight at the Mexican Grand Prix, and the Williams team recorded 366 km/h in Azerbaijan a few years ago. However, the average speed during actual races is around 250 km/h because continuous cornering requires deceleration. Interestingly, Formula E tires have a special compound, offering strong cornering grip but much lower top speeds compared to combustion-engine cars. Under rainy conditions, speeds can drop by 30%, which technicians attribute to downforce loss caused by water spray from aerodynamic components.
