Jack Brabham was, and still is, the only driver to win an F1 championship in a car of his own creation. The Australian passed away in 2014, but today the iconic name returns to the track in the form of a track-only supercar. Meet the BT62.

Striking isn’t it? This distinctive shape is forged from lightweight carbonfibre to form an aggressive aerodynamic body designed with real motorsport know-how. A large front splitter, trick underbody, large diffuser and a vast rear wing work together to create a McLaren Senna GTR-surpassing 1,200kg of downforce. Weighing in at just 972kg, that’s technically enough downforce for the BT62 to drive upside down. Between its spokes you’ll find a set of F1-grade carbon brakes and slick Michelin rubber at each corner.

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Brabham BT62

Within the carbon cocoon are a pair of racing seats that sit low in the chassis. The cockpit is sparse, very reminiscent of a hardcore racer, with just a few comforting patches of Alcantara dotted about the place. Ahead sits a digital driver’s display and a techno-marine racing wheel coated in buttons. A simple grid of buttons highlights core functions, everything else is naked carbon and roll cage.

At the heart of this Brabham is a naturally aspirated 5.4-litre V8, a rare thing in today’s world of turbocharging. It kicks out a not-insignificant 700bhp and 492lb ft of torque. No official 0-62mph figures have been given, but it’s safe to say that a power-to-weight ratio of 720bhp per tonne should yield impressive results. All of that performance potential is funnelled through to the rear wheels in a bid to 'challenge and reward the driver in equal measure'. There are some driver aids such as launch control to help the car get off the line cleanly.

Engineering boss Paul Birch said: 'Created from a blank sheet of paper, our first car takes Brabham into an exciting new era, while honouring and upholding the marque’s glorious past. The resulting BT62 is a car that demands total engagement and commitment from its driver, delivering immense reward and satisfaction.'

Brabham BT62
Brabham BT62

Just 70 examples will be produced to celebrate seven decades of Brabham, the first 35 will feature distinctive colour schemes from Jack Brabham’s race-winning cars. The cost of these rare beasts? That'll be £1 million plus local taxes, before options.

Brabham also has ambitions of returning to racing, setting its sights on the Le Mans 24 Hours in the near future. Considering that David Brabham is at the helm, himself a Le Mans champion, we’d rate its chances. One day there might even be the desire to make a Formula 1 comeback.

Gallery: Brabham BT62