Ferrari F1/87: 1987 Formula 1 turbo racer
Ferrari F1/87 — the 1987 Formula 1 season's turbocharged racer with a 1.5-litre turbo V6 engine. We delve into its construction, season results, and what you need to know about these racing cars.
F1/87 in brief
The F1/87 was one of the last turbo-era Ferrari Formula 1 racers. It combined powerful turbo technology with cutting-edge aerodynamics of the time, with drivers Gerhard Berger and Michele Alboreto battling for top spots.
This isn't a road car, but a purpose-built racer. Surviving examples are usually kept in museums or private collections and occasionally seen at historic racing events.
The season and achievements
In 1987, Ferrari didn't win the championship, but the car showed significant progress by the season's end. Gerhard Berger won the final two races of the season — the Japanese and Australian Grands Prix.
These victories were a crucial step for the team and laid the groundwork for the following year's car, which was adapted to rule changes.
The engine and tech
The F1/87 featured a 1.5-litre turbo V6 engine producing over 800 bhp. These engines were among the most powerful in Formula 1 history, making the car incredibly fast in a straight line.
Turbo technology was nearing its end by then — later rules limited turbo boost and eventually banned it, shifting to naturally aspirated engines.
What to know about these cars
Formula 1 cars aren't designed for everyday use. They require a team of specialists, complex maintenance, and special parts.
If you're interested in the F1/87 as a collector's item, the most important thing is to check its provenance, documents, and ensure the car is a genuine Ferrari. Such vehicles are usually sold through specialist dealers or auctions.
Trim levels
Names and equipment vary by market and year; we list the versions most commonly found in Europe.
F1/87
1987 seasonThe main 1987 Ferrari F1 version.
- 1.5-litre turbo V6
- Two-seater for the team
- Formula 1 car
F1/87/88C
1988 seasonUpdated version for the 1988 season.
- Updated aerodynamics
- Turbo engine
- Formula 1 car
Comparing the cars
| F1/87 | F1/87/88C | |
|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | For collectors and museums | For collectors and museums |
| Engine | 1.5-litre turbo V6 | 1.5-litre turbo V6 |
| Season | 1987 | 1988 |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | €€€ | €€€ |
The F1/87 is a historic Formula 1 car that's worth seeing in a museum or at an event. Purchases are usually for collectors.
Pros
- The symbol of the turbo era in Formula 1
- Powerful 1.5-litre turbo V6
- Victorious at the end of the season
- High collectible value
Cons
- Not suitable for the road
- Very expensive maintenance
- Buying and selling is highly restricted
Frequently asked questions
What was the F1/87 engine like?
1.5-litre turbo V6, with power exceeding 800 bhp.
Who drove the Ferrari F1/87?
Gerhard Berger and Michele Alboreto.
Is the Ferrari F1/87 available to buy?
It's extremely rare — such cars are usually kept in museums or private collections.
Updated 2026-10-21 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically





























