Racing Ennui #279 Formula Mini Plus (or FMP) by John Houghton

[Otto Puzzell]

This one looks like a load of fun to drive.  

For one point: identify the builder and type designation of this race car.  

Only a complete and specific answer will earn a point!  

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[Otto Puzzell]

Racing to the Experts

[Oswald]

This is a picture of my own collection depicting John Houghton's 'Black Lawnmower' - a Mini powered track toy of 1968/1969 vintage.

[Otto Puzzell]

Right builder, but besides the nickname you've given, it's called ______________ ?

[Oswald]

Despite the stickers, I don't believe this is a Biota if that's what you mean.
It is a Special built by the man who happened to be Biota's boss.

[Otto Puzzell]

Need the name

[Oswald]

I guess you mean Biota Midget.

[sixtee5cuda]

Perhaps "Biota Formula Mini"?  For a racing series called "Formula Mini Plus" or FMP.

(The left side looks much more interesting)

[Otto Puzzell]

Formula Mini Plus (or FMP) is what I was after.


"Biota Formula Mini Plus, or FMP. It was actually named Formula Mini Plus, or FMP, and the idea came from Biota instigator John Houghton. Houghton had been racing in a Hot Car sponsored Midget competition with a home grown Mini based car that he'd christened 'The Black Lawnmawer' with some success. It sparked the idea for a race class with more like minded. A prototype race car was built up around a 90bhp A series engine in its Mini subframe at the front, coupled to a simple chassis with four fibreglass body sections. Things looked good for low cost racing and Houghton offered replica's for budding race drivers. But negotations with RAC Competitions Department lead to nothing and the class was banned from racing before it ever hit the tracks. This was 1971"

Since Oswald got the builder a point for each of you.

[Oswald]

Right. Formula Mini Plus was the name of the championship.