The German-Swiss Formula 1 team BMW-Sauber has unveiled some astounding data and numbers from the world of Formula 1 racing. By looking at them, we can quickly assume that an F1 car is nothing less than a jet fighter circulating on a race track!On average, a Formula 1 driver sheds two kilograms in weight per grand prix. The cockpit temperature averages 50 °C.A modern Formula 1 helmet is made of carbon and, in keeping with the regulations, may not weigh more than 1,800 grams.The BMW-Sauber F1.07 car accelerated from 0 to 100 km/h (60 mph) in approx. 2.6 seconds and from 0 to 200 km/h (125 mph) in approx. 5.2 seconds. It needed 55 metres (178 feet), or two seconds, to brake from 200 km/h to a standstill.In extreme braking manoeuvres, drivers are subjected to forces of over 5 Gs for short periods. Carbon brake discs and pads require a minimum operating temperature of 550-650 °C. During braking they reach temperatures of over 1,000 °C. Parts of the protective monocoque (where the driver sits) consists of 60 layers of carbon fibre. A single carbon fibre is around six micrometres thick. Formula 1 tyres may heat up to 130 °C. Beyond this threshold there is a risk of blistering.After a race, it takes the team at least eight working hours to dismantle a car, test and replace individual components and reassemble the car.
F1: More astounding data from the world of Formula 1