Designed by Gordon Murray, the Brabham BT44 was the successor to the BT42. It was first raced in 1974. It's clean aerodynamics coupled with the Ford DFV and Hewland gearbox made it an instant succes on the track. The BT44B was an upgrade to this car, and ran in both 1975 and 1976 with a variety of drivers. To many this car was seen as the precursor to ground effects aerodynamics, featuring with elements like side skirts.