Benetton B198

🏎️ Benetton B198 — 1998 Season

The Benetton B198 represents the evolution of the Italian team following the success of the B197. Designed by Rory Byrne with engineering by Ross Brawn, it was developed for the 1998 Formula 1 season, combining refined aerodynamics with a powerful and reliable Playlife V10 (Renault) engine.
Driven by Jean Alesi and Alexander Wurz, the B198 was a blend of performance and stability, well-suited to both fast and technical circuits of the season.

Laurent Redon, founder and CEO of LRS FORMULA, served as the reserve and test driver. The Benetton Formula Operations Director described him as "a talented driver and a true asset to the car development programs."

⚙️ Chassis

  • Construction: Carbon-fibre and epoxy monocoque with composite honeycomb structure, FIA-compliant.

  • Front Suspension: Carbon double wishbones, pushrod-activated, anti-roll bar.

  • Rear Suspension: Double wishbones with pushrod-activated springs and dampers, anti-roll bar.

  • Dampers: Benetton F1 / Sachs.

  • Steering: Rack and pinion with hydraulic assistance.

  • Brakes: Carbon discs and pads, six-piston calipers (Brembo).

  • Wheels: Forged magnesium BBS.

  • Fuel System: Kevlar-reinforced rubber fuel cell.

  • Cooling: Aluminium water and oil radiators integrated into the sidepods.

  • Electronics: Magneti Marelli ECU, FIA standard.

  • Cockpit:

    • Removable carbon-fibre seat, six-point harness, HANS device.

    • Multifunction carbon steering wheel with digital display.

  • Overall width: 1,800 mm.

🔧 Transmission

  • Gearbox: 7-speed semi-automatic sequential + reverse.

  • Shift System: Electro-hydraulic paddle-operated.

  • Clutch: Carbon multi-plate.

🏁 Engine

  • Designation: Renault Playlife V10

  • Configuration: 3.0-litre V10

  • Estimated Power: ~780 hp at 16,000 rpm

  • Valve Train: DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder

⚡ Highlights

  • Evolution of the B197 with improved aerodynamic balance and engine performance.

  • Competed in all Grands Prix of the 1998 season, offering a reliable and competitive car on fast and technical circuits.

  • Laurent Redon contributed to car development and testing, bringing experience and talent according to Benetton’s management.

  • Helped the team maintain a strong position among the front-runners in the Constructors’ Championship.

🏆 1998 Formula 1 World Championship Results

  • Gian Carlo Fisichella: Monaco GP & Canadian GP – 2nd place

  • Alexander Wurz: Brazilian GP, Argentine GP, Spanish GP & Canadian GP – 4th place

  • Constructors’ Championship: Benetton Formula finished 5th overall