Formula 4 1966-2012
Formula 4 was invented in 1966 as a low-cost racing category using simple single-seater cars and 250cc motorcycle engines. The category continued for 47 seasons and many different guises before being dropped after the 2012 season. The "Formula 4" name has been purchased by Jonathan Palmer's Motor Sport Vision to be used as the name of a new BRDC-sanctioned championship starting in 2013. The 750 MC immediately expunged all mention of F4 from their website.
After an initial season only allowing 250cc motorcycle engines, the category was opened up to 675cc bike engines and 875cc car engines in 1967, and continued through the next four seasons in that form. By 1970, Vixens with 875cc Hillman Imp engines dominated the category. The 750 Motor Club took over the running of the series from the F4 Association at the end of 1970, and for 1971 a new Class "B" was introduced for cars with Group 1 or Group 2 engines up 1000cc with twin carburettors. This had the effect of allowing the Cosworth MAE engine, redundant from Formula 3 now that F3 had been increased to 1600cc. However, only side-draft engines were allowed at first, this held back numbers until the newer and more powerful down-draft engines were allowed for 1973. For 1977 a 1300cc Ford option was introduced, restricted to ensure it was competitive with the 1000cc Imp engine and ex-F3 MAE engine.
The Formula 1 Register have a long-term project to document Formula 4 from 1966 to 1976, the point at which Historic Formula Junior had become established. OldRacingCars.com is supporting the F1R project but has an interest in F4 from 1971 until the mid-1980s when Historic F3 emerged. If you have any material relating to Formula 4 from the 1960s to the 1980s, please contact Allen.
Seasons
The 1972 season
The 1973 season
Please email Allen if you have any material on Formula 4 race results.