In an era where technological prowess and sleek, modern designs are the norm, a stirring undercurrent of nostalgia is sweeping through the Formula 1 community. Triggered by a tweet from Vincenzo Landino, showcasing a video with the engine sounds of F1’s various eras, from the vintage V16s to the modern V6s and the futuristic hum of Formula E, fans are vocalizing a deep-seated yearning for the days when the engines were not just mechanisms of speed, but orchestras of sound, beautifully composed by the likes of Michael Schumacher.
The hashtag #BringBackV10s, accompanying Landino’s post, is more than a catchy phrase; it’s a clarion call echoing the sentiments of many. Fans from across the globe are chiming in, their comments painting a vivid picture of a time when the sound of an engine could send shivers down the spine and stir the soul.
From lamenting the perceived downgrade of engine sounds to reminiscing about the first-hand experiences of races past, these fan responses weave a tapestry of emotion and memory, vividly bringing to life the glory days of Formula 1’s rich auditory history. Onto them then…
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An outpour of love for the Michael Schumacher-era F1 cars
One fan’s comment, “What a downgrade,” succinctly captures the collective sentiment, reflecting a widespread belief that despite technological advancements, something visceral has been lost in the transition. This is not just a reflection on the engines themselves but a commentary on the changing face of Formula 1 and what it means to its most ardent followers.
What a downgrade
— Rayyan 🇵🇸 (@RayyanTCG) November 9, 2023
A particular reminiscence about the V12 and V10 being the defining sounds of F1, as recalled by a fan who experienced the V10’s roar amidst Melbourne’s buildings in 1996, highlights the profound impact these engines had. They weren’t just part of the background; they were the heartbeat of the race, setting the rhythm that pumped adrenaline through the veins of fans.
The V12 and V10 are how I hear F1 in my head even now.
Hearing the V10 sound echoing among the buildings in Melbourne for the 1996 GP was like a siren song.
— Dark Schuey (@DarkSchuey) November 10, 2023
Another enthusiast shares a memory of the Hungarian Grand Prix in 1995, where the mighty V12 engine of a Ferrari could be heard long before it came into sight. This recollection is a testament to the unique character these engines possessed, a character that made them more than just components of a machine.
I remember when I was at my firts F1 race at Hungaroring, bavk in 1995, you can hear Ferrari comming from way, just because of that mighty V12 engine sound
— Stefa_BGD (@Stefa_BGD) November 10, 2023
The Ferrari V10, in particular, holds a special place in the hearts of many, with one fan calling it “the most beautiful sounding engine ever.” This isn’t hyperbole but a sincere expression of the emotional connection that sound can create, linking an engine’s roar to the very essence of Formula 1’s allure.
A fan’s poetic description of the V12 and V10 as “music to my ears” underscores this sentiment. The engines of yesteryear didn’t just power cars; they created symphonies, turning each race into a concert of high-speed performance and acoustic splendor.
V12 and V10 are music to my ears.
— DL (@DL53654129) November 10, 2023
The evolution of the sport, while bringing in faster cars, also brought a sense of loss for the sound of the V12s. A fan’s remark about the beautiful, warm, and glorious sound of the 12s, and the visceral impact of the 10s, encapsulates this dichotomy of progress and nostalgia.
And why have they’ve been doing this to the sport. The cars now are quicker, yes. But those V12s sound amazing
— • (@bothiDNK) November 9, 2023
Memories of Silverstone in 1993, with the V12 at full throttle, evoke not just sounds but physical sensations – the feeling of being “punched in the heart,” as one fan describes. It’s a vivid illustration of the sheer power these engines wielded, not just in terms of speed but in their ability to evoke a physical response.
I remember going to Silverstone in 1993, and that V12, full chat on the Hangar Straight. It felt like getting punched in the heart and the frequency made the fluid in my eyes vibrate! Awesome and insane!
— John Connelly (@Bluejohnno) November 10, 2023
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The V10 certainly sounded like ASMR back in the day & is often a nostalgic memory fans reminisce about like this fan did.
V10 ASMR ftw
— Rally (@OnRallyRd) November 9, 2023
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In conclusion, it seems like Landino’s tweet has sparked a lot of nostalgia about the older generation of power units. After all, it is an integral part of F1’s heritage. Which one of the above is your favorite engine? Also, do you think F1 should go back to these older V10s & V12s? Let us know in the comments.