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Kojima KE007 Ford Cosworth F1 11° Japanese GP 1976

Japanese Near-Sensation

Whilst the Japanese Maki Team was already disbanding at the famous 1976 F1 season finale at Fuji, a new Japanese team appeared in the paddock in the form of Kojima. The KE007 had been designed by former Maki engineer Masao Ono. It was very well built and, thanks to its sophisticated aerodynamics, showed considerable potential. The competition was quite astonished when Masahiro Hasemi emerged in fourth place in the first practice session. During second practice, he was even on course to beat Mario Andretti’s later pole time in the Lotus when a suspension component snapped whilst braking for the final corner, damaging the car.

In qualifying, the black newcomer still managed to secure 10th on the grid – ahead of 16 other cars from Lotus, Ligier, McLaren, Tyrrell and Brabham! Ultimately, it was the team’s inexperience that prevented a top finish in the race. The Kojima had been built solely for this one appearance, tuned specifically for the circuit at Mount Fuji. A full Formula 1 season had never been the team’s objective. But what might have happened if the Kojima had actually started the race from pole position? As it stands, all that remains is the thrilling story of a near-sensation at the home Grand Prix – one that was not to be repeated during the second and final attempt in 1977.<?xml:namespace prefix="o" />



GTIN/EAN: 9580006541604

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MINIMAX Import & Export Co Ltd, 28/D, Lei Pou Kok, Flower City, Avenida Olimpica, Taipa, Macau, n/a, MO, models@sparkmodel.com

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