Gilles Villeneuve Ferrari 126CK race car Spanish Grand Prix 1981 season
Gilles Villeneuve – Ferrari 126CK – Spanish Grand Prix 1981
The Ferrari 126CK from the Spanish Grand Prix 1981 stands as one of the most iconic race cars in Formula 1 history — not just for its engineering, but for the driver who tamed it.
In the hands of Gilles Villeneuve, this car delivered one of the most memorable victories the sport has ever seen.
A Masterclass in Defence at Jarama
The 1981 Spanish Grand Prix at Jarama Circuit, near Madrid, became legendary thanks to Gilles Villeneuve’s breathtaking defensive drive.
Starting from seventh on the grid, Villeneuve powered the turbocharged 126CK into the lead early in the race. From that moment on, he faced relentless pressure from a train of five faster cars — led by Jacques Laffite, John Watson, Carlos Reutemann, and Elio de Angelis — all separated by less than two seconds for the final 25 laps.
Villeneuve’s car was difficult to handle and down on cornering grip compared to his rivals, but his raw acceleration on the straights and perfect racecraft allowed him to defend every attack. Lap after lap, he placed his Ferrari with millimetre precision, forcing his pursuers into frustration.
After 80 laps of tension, Villeneuve crossed the finish line first, just 1.24 seconds ahead of the five cars behind him — one of the closest finishes in Formula 1 history.
It was a display of courage, precision and strategic brilliance that became the very definition of “vintage Villeneuve.”
About the Ferrari 126CK
Powered by a 1.5-litre V6 turbo engine producing nearly 600 hp, marking Ferrari’s early steps into the turbo era.
The chassis was heavy and not always easy to control, but in Villeneuve’s hands it became a weapon — unpredictable yet devastatingly fast on the straights.
The 126CK would go on to win again just two weeks later in Monaco, cementing Villeneuve’s reputation as Ferrari’s fearless gladiator.
About Gilles Villeneuve
Born in Quebec, Canada, Gilles Villeneuve raced for Ferrari from 1977 to 1982, capturing six Grand Prix victories and millions of fans worldwide.
Known for his never-give-up attitude, fearless overtakes and emotional connection with the Scuderia, Villeneuve became — and remains — a symbol of pure racing spirit.
His performance at Jarama in 1981 is still hailed by many as one of the greatest defensive drives in Formula 1 history.
Why Collect This Model
This 1:18 scale replica of the Ferrari 126CK – Spanish Grand Prix 1981 immortalises a defining moment in Ferrari’s racing heritage.
It celebrates a legendary race, a fearless driver, and the dawn of Ferrari’s turbocharged era — all captured in exquisite detail.
✨ A true centrepiece for any classic Formula 1 or Ferrari collection.
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