Organised by esteemed engineer Sergio Rinland, The Huayra was shipped from Argentina to Oxford where engineering students from Oxford Brookes University worked tirelessly on the car, fitting it with pressure sensors and various other instrumentation. The aim of the day’s testing was to gain a better understanding of the car’s aerodynamic properties. The Huayra employs ‘ground effect’ aerodynamics, creating a low-pressure zone underneath the car that generates downforce, this design was devised by Pronello himself in 1965. The effects of ride height and adding an extended tail were also tested.

Catesby Tunnel offers the ideal environment for this sort of aerodynamic testing, offering incredibly controlled, yet real-world conditions. Rinland states “Catesby Tunnel really is the perfect facility for this sort of testing. We have a full-scale vehicle on an asphalt road, without the need for struts or supports like in a wind tunnel. The radiators, gearbox, engine etc… are all at proper running temperatures. Also, unlike traditional outdoor testing we can control the variables. The smooth surface and consistent environmental conditions have allowed us to collect data with phenomenal repeatability. This is a great way to confirm or otherwise the aerodynamic characteristics of historic cars in a fun and inexpensive way.”