Ginther and the Honda

American Richie Ginther (1930-1989) competed in Formula 1 for Ferrari, Scarab, BRM, Honda, Cooper and Eagle, winning one Grand Prix at Mexico in 1965, in a Honda. It was an historical victory, as it was Honda’s first ever Grand Prix victory.

Wonderful picture above: Richie Ginther is seen in the Honda RA272, during a wet practice session at Monaco in 1965.

Hard times for the Honda’s at Monaco in 1965 – Richie Ginther qualified on the last row of the grid in 16th position, behind team mate Ronnie Bucknum (15th), both drivers more than 4.5 seconds slower than poleman and future winner Graham Hill (BRM). In the race, they were quickly forced to retire with mechanical failures.

Interesting: The Honda RA272 had a naturally aspired V12 (60°) engine, transversely mounted (picture below), for a better weight distribution.