2001 BAR 003

The BAR 003 (British American Racing) was used in Formula 1 competition during the 2001 season. The veteran, Jacques Villeneuve, was the teams primary driver again; a duty which he had performed for the prior three seasons. McLaren's test driver, Oliver Panis, joined BAR as the team's second driver.

The BAR team came into existence in 1999 and failed to score a single point during that season. They finished in last place in the Constructors Championship. Their second season, 2000, was better and led to high expectations for the 2001 season. Unfortunately, this would not be the case. The car was plagued with handling problems which led to chassis rigidity being weakened. The Honda engines did not help much as they had less horsepower than some other comparable teams. With all of these issues, Villeneuve was still able to obtain two podium finishes at Catalunya and Hockenheim.

The team closed the season with 17 points and sixth in the Constructors' Championship.

By Daniel Vaughan | Feb 2007