Tyrrell Ford 008 Tyrrell Racing Team sponsored by ELF - Monaco Formula 1 Grand Prix 1978
Car scale model kit in 1/43 scale manufactured by Tameo Kits (ref. TMK303)

While they are all special and much celebrated, Tyrrell’s 21st Formula 1 win was perhaps a little more special than the others. It took place at the 1978 Monaco Grand Prix and was claimed by Frenchman Patrick Depailler, a loyal Ken Tyrrell and team member since 1974. He had to wait 4 seasons for his first win.

Compared to the 6-wheeled P34, the Tyrrell 008 had a very “conventional” appearance. It was designed by former aeronautical engineer Maurice Philippe, famous for his involvement in the design of the Lotus 72 and the Parnelli VPJ4. The Tyrrell 008 featured a lightweight, low-profile aluminium monocoque, internal pushrod front suspension and external shock absorbers at the rear. The engine used was the classic and efficient Cosworth DFV, while the gearbox was the Hewland FGB with constant velocity joint drive shafts and steel uprights. Curiously, although Brabham's BT46 was the one that attracted all the attention for its fan-driven design, the 008 was initially designed to also include a crankshaft-mounted fan, which forced air through the water and oil radiators located at the bottom and rear of the car. This system was discarded after a test at Paul Ricard in 1977, and the project abandoned after its ban by the FIA. The 008 was even designed to incorporate an active camber control system, using the inner upper mounts of the front and rear wishbones through a series of valves. This system also did not materialize, although the variable mounts were retained on the suspension and the provision for active adjustment is visible.

During the 1978 season Tyrrell also made use of data acquisition, with 008s often fitted with equipment located forward of the dashboard structure and a hatch in the front of the bodywork to allow access. Development was carried out by Tyrrell sponsors Data General in conjunction with Dr Karl Kempf, and was the first step towards a concept that is now commonplace at all levels of motorsport.

At the Monaco Grand Prix Patrick Depallier was driving the Tyrrell 008 chassis 003, setting the fifth fastest time in practice. Depailler made a spectacular start, and by the exit of the first corner he was already in second place between the Brabhams of John Watson and Niki Lauda. From that point on, Depailler kept up the pressure until Watson went off, which put Depailler and his Tyrrell 008 in the lead, which he maintained until the end, crossing the finish line 22 seconds ahead of Lauda. This was Patrick Depailler's first Formula 1 Grand Prix win, which, combined with his strong results at the start of the season, put him in the lead of the Formula 1 World Championship at that time.