Rare Northamptonshire-built F1 car that can be driven at track events set to go under the hammer

A rare Formula 1 car built in Northamptonshire with an estimated value of up to £250,000 that can be driven at events is being auctioned this month.

The 2002 Jordan Honda EJ12 was designed, created and tested at Jordan F1 team's base at Silverstone Circuit and driven by Takuma Sato during the 2002 season.

The car, which has a DHL yellow exterior and original Suzuka Legend livery, is one of two known surviving chassis out of five built that year by the team, now BWT Racing Point.

Usually such a car would not be useable but an engine change combined with a spares and garage set-up package means it can be driven at track events.

Bids are being accepted for the car, which has been signed by former team owner, Eddie Jordan, through classic car auction house, The Market, from September 22-29.

Auction house director Tristan Judge said: “As one of just two known remaining chassis built by the Jordan F1 team in 2002, this car’s rarity already makes it incredibly attractive and desirable.

“However, with the engine changes that have been made, the car is much more useable than most top flight race cars, meaning that the new owner can practically turn up to events alone and enjoy it’s stunning performance.

"The vendor keeps telling us how astounded he has been at this car’s ability to open doors to fantastic events and remarkable people, including many ex-F1 drivers.”

Unlike the original specification, the car is now fitted with a Judd KV8 Zytec S3000 Formula 3000 engine, mated with a five-speed Lola/Hewland paddle shift gearbox.

The modifications mean the car still retains blistering performance but is significantly cheaper to run and much more useable.

Accompanying the car is everything the owner would need to run it, including further sets of wheel rims and tyres, and a selection of spares including wishbones and various tools.

Tristan added: “Not only will the successful bidder acquire a top flight racecar and spares package that’s ready for action, the new owner can also enter the Boss GP Championship or accept a standing invitation to take it to Suzuka.

"Surely an unmissable opportunity for a true motorsport enthusiast?"