Key Features
- Authentic 50% scale Sauber C20 wind tunnel model
- Used during development work at the RUAG wind tunnel in Emmen
- Gifted by Sauber to RUAG management after testing
- Connected to Kimi Räikkönen’s Formula One debut and Nick Heidfeld’s 2001 Brazilian Grand Prix podium
- Prototype bodywork featuring acrylic artwork by Swiss artist Andreas Jordi
Location
Silverstone, United Kingdom
Story
The 2001 Sauber C20 Wind Tunnel Model – 50% Scale is a significant piece of Formula One development history, combining original Sauber engineering provenance with artwork by Swiss artist Andreas Jordi. Created during the development of the C20, this substantial half-scale model reflects the aerodynamic work behind Sauber’s 2001 Formula One car.
For the 2001 season, Sauber developed the C20 around a leaner and more efficient design philosophy, with reduced complexity and weight. Aerodynamic development played a major role in the project, with the team spending 35 weeks testing at the RUAG wind tunnel in Emmen. The C20 was the final Sauber Formula One car developed there before the team moved to its own wind tunnel in Hinwil.
The C20 is also notable for introducing Sauber’s twin-keel design, with the lower wishbones mounted on extensions beneath the tub to help clean up the frontal area and reduce drag. It was also the car in which Kimi Räikkönen made his Formula One debut, while Nick Heidfeld secured third place at the Brazilian Grand Prix.
Following the completion of testing, this wind tunnel model was gifted by Sauber to the RUAG management. Its prototype bodywork was later transformed by Andreas Jordi, who applied bold acrylic paint across the model’s aerodynamic surfaces.
Features
- Authentic 50% scale Sauber C20 wind tunnel model
- Used during development work at the RUAG wind tunnel in Emmen
- Gifted by Sauber to RUAG management after testing
- Connected to Kimi Räikkönen’s Formula One debut and Nick Heidfeld’s 2001 Brazilian Grand Prix podium
- Prototype bodywork featuring acrylic artwork by Swiss artist Andreas Jordi
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The Austin Auction LOT 010 - 2001 Sauber C20 Wind Tunnel Model - 50% Scale
