ADUK Archive

Was not just less power.

I also imagine there was less grip, less technology, less effective brakes, fewer run-off areas, etc.
Also a much higher chance of serious injury and death.

A good driver from one era could probably adapt to the racing in another era.

Yes the lack of safety was quite shocking by today's standards as a recent tv doc. outlined. Different era and it seemed accepted that drivers would die pursuing their sport. Some horrible footage of cars in flames (with drivers trapped) but the race going on.

I think I would also agree that any truly great driver from many years ago would probably be a truly great driver now. The technology changes, the speed also but the commitment and mental attitude to racing would be the same.

martine wrote:... it seemed accepted that drivers would die pursuing their sport

One of the areas the aforementioned JYS was particularly active in addressing.

stv wrote:
A good driver from one era could probably adapt to the racing in another era.

Probably true, except the problem is that age cannot be turned back.
There are too, other considerations, such as how regulations affect driving styles.
I'm merely saying that across era comparisons are not simple.
I prefer to admire each within their time.
The OP's video link appears to be unavailable but JS, it seems to me, has always been of the "smooth" approach.
Surely the best way on public roads?

For some reason I am reminded of Roger Albert Clark - a man sadly missed.

In years when we had race-track stages in the RAC Rally he put up some amazing lap times. 'Sideways to Victory' just about sums him up.

I can't remember which year but he was testing a Ford RS1600 on the Isle of Man and put up faster times than most of the TT riders.

Back on topic - most of my teenage heroes died on the track - Lorenzo Bandini, Jochen Rhindt, Jim Clark etc.

There was a period back then when things were pretty crazy, and we were losing great drivers every month it seemed.

Yes - of course I meant Albert.

How embarrassing -

I was too busy thinking of his initials spelling RAC to get it right.

But it's not too late to edit it.

Shhhh - don't tell anyone.