1976 Chevron B36
Brand
Chevron
Year
1976
Country
Great Britain
Generation
B36
1976 Chevron B36
Brand
Chevron
Year
1976
Country
Great Britain
Generation
B36
About this car
Discover the history
The 1976 Chevron B36 was a prominent figure in the world of 2-liter sports car racing, designed by British race car manufacturer Chevron Cars Ltd. It succeeded the B31 and served as the final evolution of Chevron’s successful 2-liter spyders. The B36 was designed to accommodate various engines, including the BMW, Cosworth, and even Mazda rotary powerplants, providing teams with flexibility based on their preferences and racing regulations. Approximately 20 to 21 B36 chassis were produced between 1976 and 1978, and the model proved competitive well into the 1980s.
Technically, the Chevron B36 employed a lightweight fiberglass body mounted to a monocoque chassis, making it aerodynamic and responsive on the track. The ground-effects design included a large rear wing and a front splitter to enhance downforce and keep the car stable at high speeds. This design allowed the B36 to compete at circuits worldwide, standing out during the ground-effects era when aerodynamics became a critical part of race car performance.
The B36 made its racing debut at the 4 Hours of Monza in 1976, although it faced early reliability issues, with both debut cars failing to finish the race. Despite its rocky start, the B36 saw significant success throughout the racing season and beyond. One of the most notable achievements was its class victory at the 500 km of Dijon, driven by Swiss team members Louis Maulini and Christian Blanc. The car also competed in iconic events such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans, where it had mixed results but gained valuable experience. In the 1977 edition of Le Mans, the B36 placed 6th overall and first in its class, showcasing its durability and engineering excellence. The car continued to race at Le Mans in 1978, again achieving first in class and 11th overall, solidifying its reputation as a contender in endurance racing.
The B36 was particularly favored by privateer teams, such as Racing Organization Course (ROC), a French team that achieved considerable success with the car, notably at Le Mans and other prestigious endurance races. After its prime competitive years, the Chevron B36 found a new life in historic racing events, often returning to Le Mans Classic and competing in the Classic Endurance Racing Series.
The B36 is still admired today for its versatility, engineering precision, and racing pedigree, making it a valuable car in both vintage racing circuits and private collections. Its legacy continues to inspire a generation of racers and collectors alike.