The incredible restoration of the Williams FW11 and Nigel Mansell’s return to the track. In 2025, Honda and Williams Heritage restored the legendary 1986 Williams FW11.

The incredible restoration of the Williams FW11 and the return to the track with Nigel Mansell

In 2025, Honda celebrated the 60th anniversary of its first victory in Formula 1 by undertaking an extraordinary restoration project in collaboration with Williams Heritage. The project focused on the legendary 1986 Williams Honda FW11, the iconic car that delivered Honda its first Constructors’ Championship title in Formula 1.

The FW11 chassis arrived from Japan early in the year and underwent a meticulous “period-correct” restoration process. This included complete disassembly, detailed 3D scanning and reproduction of components, a comprehensive overhaul of the engine and gearbox, and a fresh repaint using original parts and authentic supplies. Even the driver’s seat was reconstructed with fabric materials matching those used in the mid-1980s.

After three months of painstaking work, the restored Williams FW11 completed a shakedown run in June. The car was powered by the original Honda turbo engine, revving up to an astonishing maximum of 10,000 revolutions per minute (RPM), in preparation for its public debut at the prestigious Goodwood Festival of Speed. This event also marked the perfect occasion to celebrate the 75th anniversary of Formula 1 itself.

At Goodwood, the historic car was driven by a selection of notable drivers including Karun Chandhok, Riccardo Patrese, Thierry Boutsen, and most importantly Nigel Mansell, the British racing legend who won three Grands Prix in 1986 behind the wheel of the FW11. Mansell and the other drivers praised the extreme power of the turbocharged Honda engine, which was capable of producing up to 1,500 horsepower in qualifying trim during the 1980s. They also shared their unique driving impressions and emphasized the deep respect required to handle such a demanding and powerful Formula 1 car.

The initiative was widely hailed as both a technical and historical success. It moved audiences and participants alike, bringing one of the most iconic symbols of the turbo era back to life on the racetrack.

Here is the stunning video released by Honda Racing Global documenting this remarkable restoration and return.