The Sports Lowdown For All Your News and Opinions4. McLaren Mp4/13
The first car properly designed by Adrian Newey for McLaren, the MP4/13 was, according to the man himself, hastily put together ahead of the 1998 season. Newey, nevertheless, lived up to his status as one of the most successful F1 car designers the sport has ever seen as the resulting package was neat, tidy and a head above the competition. The Mercedes engine in the back of the car which was the most powerful on the grid, and Newey’s strong influence on the car’s pretty shapes and aerodynamics were the two factors that defined the MP4/13 competitiveness. After ending their long-term relationship with Marlboro, McLaren opted to go with cigarette brand West as their title sponsor. Blending West’s company colours together with McLaren’s trademark logos and lines resulted in a breathtaking livery. It gave the MP4/13 the look of a proper, proper racing car. With a car that looks like this car on their hands, it was clear that McLaren meant business and not much else. Righlty so, the car went on to grab the 1998 constructors title while Mika Häkkinen secured the driver’s championship.
