Chassis No1 - The Mid-Engined Formula Junior

In 1960, as the world of motor racing stood on the brink of transformation, a small workshop in Bologna quietly produced a car that would become part of that revolution. The Faccioli Tipo BF1, commissioned by Massimo Bondi and hand-built by Aldo Faccioli, emerged as one of the very first mid-engined Formula Juniors to come out of Italy — a bold departure from the traditional front-engined norm and a clear signal of where the future lay.

Chassis No. 1 represents that pivotal moment. Compact, purposeful and beautifully proportioned, it captures the optimism and ingenuity of early-1960s Italian engineering. Its lightweight tubular chassis is clothed in exquisitely hand-formed aluminium bodywork, delicate yet purposeful, echoing the great Italian thoroughbreds of the era in miniature form. Behind the driver sits a period-correct FIAT 1100/103 inline four-cylinder engine, tuned to deliver the crisp, high-revving soundtrack that defines Formula Junior at its most evocative, paired with a modified FIAT 600 four-speed gearbox.

The Tipo BF1 is not simply a charming Italian special; it is a documented competition car with genuine period history. Among its early successes are class honours at the 1961 Predappio Hill Climb in the hands of Anzio Zucchi. Its significance was later recognised when it formed part of the Monza Museum collection, displayed for nearly a decade, and it returned to the spotlight at the inaugural 1998 Revival Meeting at the Goodwood Motor Circuit — a circuit that has since become synonymous with the golden age of motor racing.

Today, with the Chichester Cup confirmed to return at the Goodwood Revival in 2026 for rear-engined, drum-braked Formula Juniors, the Faccioli stands as a compelling and highly eligible entrant. In a field often dominated by Coopers and Lotuses, this car offers something rarer — an authentic, early Italian mid-engined pioneer that guarantees distinction both on track and in the paddock. Maintained and race supported today by the team at Setford & Co. in Exton, Hampshire BF1 is ready to be present at any prestigious historic competition, including adaptation for sustainable fuels in keeping with the evolving ethos of the Goodwood Revival.

More than a race car, the Faccioli Tipo BF1 is a conversation piece, a “missing link” in racing’s technical evolution, and a wonderfully characterful machine that invites its next custodian to become part of its continuing story.

"A miniaturized Maserati with the soul of a Bologna special—ready to chase the sunset at the 2026 Revival."

PRICE: £ 39,500