1971 Parnelli Lightning P.J. Colt Indy Car

Vel's VPJ team was composed of Vel Miletich, California Ford dealer, Parnelli Jones rookie of the year 1961 and winner of the Indianapolis 500 in 1963, and the team mechanic Jimmy Dilamarter. Joining this elite group of individuals were some of the most talented drivers of the day.

VPJ began designing and constructing its own racecars in 1969. In 1970 and 1971, the P.J. Colt series cars won both consecutive Indianapolis 500 and USAC National Championships, with drivers Al Unser and Joe Leonard. Vel's Parnelli Jones was named the 'Super Team' in 1972, with the addition of Mario Andretti.

Rather than beginning with a 'clean sheet design,' VPJ initially fielded a Colt, essentially a modified Lola T150. When it was time to replace the Colt, the team hired several former Lotus engineers including Maurice Phillippe. Three USAC (Indy) cars were constructed, followed by the team's first Formula 1 entry - the VPJ4.

by Daniel Vaughan | Jan 2025