Given that most sim racers are also fans of real motorsport, there are plenty of good reasons for a trip to the National Motor Museum. And now Beaulieu adds a simulator as part of the Icons of Formula 1 display.
Entry to the display is included in a normal ticket, and eight F1 cars are on display to representate each decade, starting with a 1950 BRM V16 driven by Juan Manuel Fangio and Stirling Moss for the 1950s, and finishing with the 2021 Williams FW43 B-01. And fans of iRacing might recognise the 1967 Lotus 49, with the particular example on show built for Graham Hill to drive at Silverstone for the British Grand Prix.
The other cars on display are a 1976 March 761, a 1986 Williams FW11, a 1993 Williams FW15C Renault, a 2004 Jaguar R5, a 2002 Ferrari F2002, and a 2013 Red Bull RB9.
Having a go on the simulator costs extra, starting at £15 for a 15 minute experience, running from 10.30am until 5pm. But even if you have a basic sim racing set-up at home, it might be worth trying out as it’s been built by Wave Italy and includes an advanced motion system with reactive belts. And there’s also a monthly champagne prize for the best lap time.
Given the supplied pictures and the F1 cockpit, I’d guess it’s a Wave Italy Phoenix Pro sim rig, which features the high end wheel and pedal set you might expect, along with the active belt and backrest system. For reference, the Wave Impact steering wheel costs from €2,390, and the cheapest two pedal set are the Sim Pedals Pro from €1,650, so they’re probably a step up from most home sim racing setups.
Similar Wave Italy simulators have also been available at other locations, including the Ferrari musuem in Maranello. And while 15 minutes might not seem like long, it’s surprising how quickly you can get tired out by a full motion sim. Especially compared to the static set-ups most of us are using at home. Height and weight limits do apply, and it’s intended for adult use.
The Icons of Formula 1 display and simulator will be available the National Motor Museum from May 24th, 2025 until November 2nd, to mark 75 years since the original F1 World Drivers’ Championship. And obviously there’s loads more to look at with more than 280 vehicles on display. You can find out more via the National Motor Museum website, including booking advanced tickets. Or for sim rigs to suit every budget, check out everything we’ve featured.
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