Epic Evolution of F1 Cars: Alfa Romeo 158 to MCL39

Formula 1 has changed almost beyond recognition since the first world championship race took place on May 13, 1950. Back then, grand prix cars like the Alfa Romeo 158 lined up at Silverstone, driven by legends such as Juan Manuel Fangio and Giuseppe Farina.

Fast forward 75 years, and the 2025 McLaren MCL39 represents the cutting edge of racing technology. The essential idea remains the same—build the fastest car and finish first—but the details are worlds apart.

The Alfa Romeo 158, first introduced in 1938, was already twelve years old when it dominated the 1950 season, taking victory in six out of seven races it entered. Its design was compact, with a length of about 4,250mm and a width of 1,550mm.

The wheelbase measured 2,500mm, and weight came in around 650kg. In contrast, the 2025 McLaren MCL39 stretches well beyond 5,000mm in length, claims the maximum width of 2,000mm set by regulations, and has a wheelbase under 3,600mm.

The minimum weight for modern F1 cars is now 800kg, including the driver, but excluding fuel. Both cars reflect their eras in chassis and suspension.

The 158 featured a tubular steel frame and simple leaf spring suspension, while McLaren’s latest creation boasts a carbon-fibre monocoque and advanced pullrod and pushrod suspension systems built from lightweight, strong materials like carbon fibre and titanium.

The Alfa’s engine was mounted to the frame rather than being part of the car’s structure, a major change from today’s cars, where the engine is a stressed member bolted directly into the monocoque for added rigidity.

The powertrain technology highlights even starker contrasts. The 158’s 1.5-litre, inline-eight engine, powered by a supercharger, delivered around 350bhp in 1950 using highly flammable methanol fuel.

Its four-speed manual gearbox was a far cry from today’s seamless-shift, eight-speed transmissions operated with paddles. By comparison, the Mercedes engine in the McLaren MCL39 is a 1.6-litre V6 turbo hybrid unit with MGU-K and MGU-H electric systems, pushing the combined output close to 1,000bhp and achieving over 50% thermal efficiency. For a deeper dive into hybrid powertrains, the U.S. Department of Energy provides valuable insights into energy-efficient technologies.

Modern fuel flow limits are strictly set at 100kg/hour. Braking capability has also made an enormous leap.

Alfa’s car used hydraulic drum brakes and wire-spoked wheels wrapped in narrow treaded Pirellis. McLaren’s car relies on carbon-carbon discs and six-piston calipers for incredible stopping power, with computer-controlled brake-by-wire systems.

The switch to magnesium alloy wheels and larger, slick racing tyres is obvious when comparing photos, even though both cars still run Pirelli rubber. Drivers have evolved along with the machinery.

Farina, Fangio, and Fagioli were seasoned racers, with Farina claiming the first world champion title at age 43. Physical strength and stamina were crucial in a time when power steering and other aids did not exist.

Modern drivers like Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, both under 26, began their F1 journeys as teenagers and must maintain peak fitness for today’s long and intense racing calendar. Where early champions often competed across multiple types of racing, today’s drivers are focused almost entirely on Formula 1.

Comparing the Alfa Romeo 158 and the McLaren MCL39 shows just how far F1 has progressed—from small, rugged cars built by hand to highly engineered machines relying on the latest materials and electronics. For a broader historical perspective, the FIA’s official archives document the sport’s evolution in detail.

Despite the transformation, the heart of the sport—racing to be the fastest—remains. Fans can look back over 75 years, from the thundering straight-eights of the 1950s to the hybrid-powered, aerodynamic wonders of today, and see both how much has changed and what still brings everyone to the track.

For enthusiasts interested in related motor sports innovation, the evolution of funny cars demonstrates similar leaps in technology and performance. Those curious about the engineering behind racing tires can explore Pirelli’s motorsport technology page.

Daniel Miller

Daniel Miller reports on Formula 1 Grand Prix weekends with race-day analysis, team-radio highlights, and point-standings updates. He explains power-unit upgrades, aerodynamic developments, and driver rivalries in straightforward, SEO-friendly language for a global F1 audience.