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Connew was a Formula One constructor that took only part in one race, in 1972.

In 1970, Surtees design engineer Peter Connew decided to build his own Formula 1 car. The Connew-Cosworth PC1 was built in a small workshop in the east of London by Connew and two friends. The Cosworth-DFV engine was 2nd hand, from McLaren.

Due to lack of funding and a rule change that required the construction of another chassis, it took 18 months until the PC2 chassis was finally ready, for the 1972 French Grand Prix. Frenchman François Migault brought some sponsorship for a few races, and also a transporter to carry the car to France. Yet, they did not make it all the way to Charade Circuit, and settled for testing at the short Bugatti Circuit in Le Mans, Migault's home town.

The small team managed to show up at the 1972 German Grand Prix, but without having made a proper prior entry, participation was denied by the Germans.

The car finally took part in the practice for the 1972 British Grand Prix but was withdrawn before the race. The car had an unusual rear suspension which proved not to be up to the job, and the car was too slow anyway.

The car was modified and entered in the 1972 Austrian Grand Prix. Migault qualified at the end of the field despite some engine troubles. After 22 laps, Migault had passed 4 competitors, the suspension collapsed and Migault had a nasty moment. The car swerved towards the barriers on the start/finish straight, but the driver brought the car safely to a halt without damage.

The Connew reappeared at the end of season World Championship Victory Race at Brands Hatch with David Purley driving but did not start because of electrical problems. The chassis was modified that winter and appeared briefly in 1973 as a Formula 5000 car but again crashed.

• History and pictures from team member Barry Boor
• 8w article on the project

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