The 312 T2 was the evolution of the 312 T and was presented at Fiorano. Due to new aerodynamic regulations, the airbox behind the cockpit was eliminated; air reached the flat-12 through NACA ducts on the cockpit sides instead. The wheelbase grew to 2560 mm; a De Dion rear axle was abandoned following testing. The car debuted in 1976 at the Race of Champions at Brands Hatch, with its first World Championship round following in May in Spain. Lauda held a commanding lead in the World Championship until his serious crash at the Nürburgring; he lost the title to James Hunt by a single point, but Ferrari secured the Constructors' Championship.
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Learn moreThe 1976 312 T2 · The 1977 312 T2B
The 1976 312 T2
The T2 featured a 2560 mm wheelbase, 42 mm longer than that of the 312T. Due to new aerodynamic regulations, the airbox was dropped; instead, NACA-shaped ducts fed air to each cylinder bank. At the start, there was also a De Dion rear suspension, which was discarded after extensive testing. Lauda held a commanding lead in the World Championship after three more victories when he crashed at the Nürburgring due to a suspected rear suspension failure.
The 1977 312 T2B
For 1977, the car was evolved into the T2B; initially, two 1976 cars (chassis 026 and 027) were still used. Following a test program, a new rear-wing profile, revised bodywork, and updated suspension were introduced. The Goodyear tires caused problems, as they were designed for the high downforce of the Lotus 78 and stayed too cold on the Ferrari with its lower downforce. Lauda won the Drivers' Championship more through reliability than outright pace, taking 3 victories; Reutemann won once. After clinching the title at Watkins Glen, Lauda left the team before the end of the season.
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