From 1906 through to 2006, Grand Prix engine speeds rose ever higher, from less than 2000 rpm to ultimately a mind-boggling 20,000 rpm, writes Ian Bamsey, in Race Engine Technology magazine. Then the rule-makers abruptly halted the march of progress with a 19,000 rpm rev limit for 2007, subsequently reduced to the current stifling 18,000 rpm - plus, to add insult to injury, a moratorium on development.While engine evolution is back in 2014, the emphasis henceforth will be fuel efficiency rather than outright, untrammelled performance. The glorious Century of Speed is over.The first Formula One engine to attain 20,000 rpm on track was the Cosworth CA of 2006, and it is generally agreed that...
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