F1 Sauber C16A 01 1997 rolling chassis

Sauber C16-01 Rolling Chassis (1997) – A Rare Opportunity to Acquire a Piece of F1 History

We proudly offer this exceptional and rare Sauber C16 Formula 1 car, chassis number 01 — accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity issued by the Sauber F1 Team.

This is an original carbon monocoque chassis from 1997, built by Sauber F1 during one of the most exciting and historically significant seasons in modern Formula 1. While chassis C16-01 never participated in a Grand Prix, it served as a factory reference and development chassis, used internally to validate and test the production of the racing chassis before they entered competition.

Optically Complete Rolling Chassis
The car is presented as a rolling chassis: visually complete with original bodywork, correct 1997 livery, aerodynamic components, suspension, steering column, braking system, and period-correct Goodyear tires. The car includes the original gearbox casing but is offered without internal transmission components or engine. Visually, this Sauber C16 appears fully complete and is a stunning display centerpiece.

Fully Restored to Original 1997 Specification
This chassis has recently undergone a meticulous cosmetic restoration, professionally repainted and refinished to exact original 1997 specifications, including period-correct sponsor liveries such as Red Bull, Petronas, and Credit Suisse. Every detail has been carefully executed to ensure historical accuracy, making it an outstanding addition to any serious Formula 1 collection, automotive museum, or exclusive showroom display.

A Remarkable 1997 Season
1997 marked Sauber’s fifth season in Formula 1. That year, the Swiss team entered a new phase as they became Ferrari’s first customer engine partner, using rebadged Ferrari V10 engines under the Petronas banner. Their strong partnership with Red Bull also began during this era, eventually becoming one of Formula 1’s most successful modern teams. The driver lineup included Britain’s Johnny Herbert, a double Grand Prix winner known for his resilience, alongside Ferrari’s long-time test driver Nicola Larini. Later in the season, Larini was replaced by Gianni Morbidelli and eventually Norberto Fontana, as Ferrari’s influence on the team grew.

A Unique Schumacher Connection
Adding further significance to this particular chassis, it is documented that seven-time World Champion Michael Schumacher, while racing for Ferrari, once tested this very Sauber C16 chassis at the request of Sauber. This remarkable detail makes C16-01 even more attractive to collectors who value not only the rarity but also the unique link to one of Formula 1’s greatest legends.

Provenance & Collector Appeal
For many years, the car was privately owned in Scandinavia after being displayed by a Ferrari dealership (how the car initially arrived there remains unknown). Today, fully restored and certified by Sauber, C16-01 offers a rare chance to acquire an authentic piece of 1990s Formula 1 history. With its direct ties to Sauber, Ferrari, Red Bull, and Michael Schumacher, this car represents a unique investment-grade asset, combining motorsport heritage, rarity, and historical significance.

Serious inquiries are welcome.

The description of this F1 car is, to the best of the our knowledge, accurate and not misleading. GPCARS4SALE requests a range of detail about the cars from the pre-owner and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. Potential buyers should view or arrange inspections in the showroom of GPCARS4SALE as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to buy. 

Please note that it is not uncommon for classic vehicles to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, either to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be undetectable even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork during its life. Furthermore, photographs may not reflect the true colour or full condition of the vehicle. It is buyers’ responsibility to satisfy themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to buy.