F1 Historics - March 761

British manufacturer and Formula One constructor, March Engineering began operation in 1969 by its four founders, Max Mosley, Alan Rees, Graham Coaker and Robin Herd. The name 'March' was chosen by using initials from their first or last names. Each of these individuals brought unique qualities and talents to the team. Herd was the designer, Rees was the team's manager, Coaker oversaw production, and Mosley handled the commercial side of the operation.

The purpose of the company was to provide chassis for customers competing in all racing categories. In 1969 the company built a Formula 3 car. A year later they produced an F1 racer, the 701, which they used for team competition and to supply to privateers. In the non-championship Race of Champions, Jackie Stewart gave March its first F1 victory. He won the Spanish Grand Prix a month later.

In the years to come, the company would become more successful in more classes, except for the F1 program, than any other manufacturer.

March 761

The March 761 was raced during the 1976 and 1977 Formula 1 season. It was powered by a Ford/Cosworth DFV engine which brought the car to a one race victory during its racing career. It sat on pole position once and even had one fastest lap. In total, there were six examples created. In comparison to the prior March F1 cars, this had a wider track and a stronger chassis.

Race history for 761-4

US GP West
Long Beach - 28 Mar 1976, March 761/4 - Cosworth DFV V8, Arturo Merzario, Did not qualify

Spanish GP
Jarama - 2 May 1976, March 761/4 - Cosworth DFV V8, Arturo Merzario, Retired

Belgian GP
Zolder - 16 May 1976, March 761/4 - Cosworth DFV V8, Arturo Merzario, Retired

Monaco GP
Monte Carlo - 30 May 1976, March 761/4 - Cosworth DFV V8, Arturo Merzario, Did not qualify

Swedish GP
Anderstorp - 13 Jun 1976, March 761/4 - Cosworth DFV V8, Arturo Merzario, 14th

French GP
Paul Ricard - 4 Jul 1976, March 761/4 - Cosworth DFV V8, Arturo Merzario, 9th

British GP
Brands Hatch - 18 Jul 1976, March 761/4 - Cosworth DFV V8, Arturo Merzario, Retired

German GP
Nürburgring - 1 Aug 1976, March 761/4 - Cosworth DFV V8, Vittorio Brambilla, Retired (accident)

Austrian GP
Österreichring - 15 Aug 1976, March 761/4 - Cosworth DFV V8, Karl Oppitzhauser, Did not take part in official practice

Shellsport G8 Championship round
Brands Hatch - 30 Aug 1976, March 761/4 - Cosworth DFV V8, Karl Oppitzhauser, Did not qualify

Aurora AFX Championship Round
Mallory Park - 1 May 1978, March 761/4 - Cosworth DFV V8, Gerd Biechteler, 11

Aurora AFX Championship Round
Donington Park - 21 May 1978, March 761/4 - Cosworth DFV V8, Gerd Biechteler, Did not start