With Formula 1 switching to turbo V6 engines this season, it is inevitable to look back at the first turbo era and its original pioneer, Renault. Notoriously unreliable during the first seasons, the French cars were mockingly referred to as the 'yellow teapots'. By the early 1980s, the team look ready to clinch the driver's World Championship with Alain Prost. They came no closer than 1983 with the all-new Renault RE40. This was the first time Renault used a carbon fibre composite chassis. By mid-season, the title looked a sure bet for Prost but several turbo failures let him down in the end. He nevertheless has warm feelings for the RE40, especially praising its refined handling. In more recent years, one of the RE40s was restored by Renault Classic and this example is pictured in our 20-shot gallery. It is seen in action at the Goodwood Festival of Speed with among others, Alain Prost himself behind the wheel.
On Saturday, Ferrari revealed the first images and details of the F14 T due to make its testing debut tomorrow. Like all new-for-2014 cars, it features a very low nose to comply with the revised regulations. Retained from last year's car was the slightly unusual pull-rod front suspension. Due to drive the F14 T are former World Champions Fernando Alonso and Kimi Raikonen.
Using the same drivetrain as the new Ferrari is the Sauber C33, which was previewed yesterday. From the angles available, it looks like the new Sauber boasts the most visually pleasing nose, although a lot is expected to change before the season starts in earnest in Australia.

Enjoy the links:

1983 Renault RE40 - Images, Specifications and Information

2014 Sauber C33 Ferrari - Images, Specifications and Information

2014 Ferrari F14 T - Images, Specifications and Information