1988 Benetton F1 B188-04, driven by Thierry Boutsen
Races driven: San Marino (P4), Monaco (P8), Mexico (P8)
The Benetton F1 team and its iconic livery were among the top contenders in Formula 1 during the late 1980s and early 1990s, later achieving legendary status when Michael Schumacher won two consecutive World Championships with Benetton in 1994 and 1995.
This exact F188, chassis 04 achieved an impressive 4th place at the 1988 San Marino Grand Prix, earning three championship points. It was driven by none other than Belgian F1 driver Thierry Boutsen.
During the 1988 Formula 1 season, Benetton finished third in the Constructors’ Championship with 39 points. The team originally scored 46 points, but both Benetton cars were disqualified from the Belgian Grand Prix for using irregular fuel. Interestingly, the disqualification was not made official until a month after the season ended, so many published records still list Boutsen and Nannini as having finished third and fourth respectively at Spa.
This car is fitted with its correct 3.5L V8 DFR Ford Cosworth engine, in perfect running condition, along with fully operational Pi Research electronics. The engine was rebuilt approximately 100 km ago.
Before finalizing the purchase, a comprehensive service will be carried out, and the prospective buyer will have the opportunity to test-drive the car on track to confirm its perfect mechanical condition. A 20% deposit is required, which will be fully refundable if the buyer is not satisfied.
Included with the car are two sets of tyres (dry/wet) and the starter unit. Thanks to the widely used and well-supported 3.5L DFR Cosworth engine, parts are readily available.
This makes the Benetton B188-04 an accessible and exciting entry point into Historic Formula 1 racing.
