Fantasy Junction

Description

1972 March 722 Formula Atlantic
Chassis No. 722-12
Red with #44 livery

Highlights of this March 722

- Event ready with Vegher Cosworth engine and 76B updates
- Tub-up restoration with extensive use of Titanium suspension parts
- Prepared for and raced by Bert Skidmore, Proprietor of Intrepid Motors

History of March Engineering

Combining the names of the five primary specialists that comprised the fledgling UK based enterprise, the team of Max Mosley, Alan Rees, Graham Coaker, and Robin Herd formed the MARCH acronym, launching their ambitious operation in 1969. Unlike other constructors of the era, March did not limit their expertise to a single class of cars, instead they offered F1, F2, F3, Formula Ford, and Can-AM series cars for privateers and significant race teams just one year after opening their operations.

The 722 was introduced by March Engineering in 1972, with variants designed for Formula 2, Formula Atlantic, and Formula B competition. Each of these cars used essentially the same construction process and overall design including 16 and 18-gauge L72 aluminum alloy bathtub monocoque construction with a tubular subframe cradling the rear mounted engine and exposed front and rear suspension. The nose radiator was relocated to twin side positions, narrow front wishbone suspension was utilized, and the rear featured inboard disc brakes. Both forward and rear aerodynamic aids were mounted to improve downforce. Success came in a range of notable period races including both ambitious privateers and more notable racing organizations. Lightweight, agile, and friendly on the wallet, these traits remain favorable with vintage racing enthusiasts around the world who continue to run these cars with confidence and pride.

History of 722-12

This March 722 was restored by renown experts at Bert Skidmore's Intrepid Motorcars. Skidmore, one of the premier participants and proponents of vintage motorsports racing, had his team prepare this March as his personal racecar. Fitted with a dyno tested engine by long time racing partner and Cosworth specialist Dave Vegher, the dyno sheet accompanying the car indicates ample power on tap including 76B updates and numerous titanium parts used throughout the build including the front subframe, steering column, shifter, shift linkage, and other important suspension parts.

During the major tub-up restoration only the side skins of the tub needed to be replaced. Among the many improvements, the car was updated with 76B suspension and twin diagonal down bars were installed, which are a significant improvement over the single bar terminating at the rear bulkhead. After the restoration was completed, the car ran 14 race weekends primarily driven by Bert Skidmore with selected race events including Dave Vegher (engine builder) and Lyn St. James as drivers. The owner reports that the engine currently in the car has been run two weekends since it was refreshed by Vegher and the gearbox has about 8 hours since it too was refreshed by Vegher. Additionally, the gearbox was recently opened, inspected (including a good ring and pinion), reassembled, and sealed.

The current logbook accompanying this car begins in June 2010 including Portland HMSA, Coronado Speed Fest, Laguna Seca Raceway, continuing through 2012-2014 to the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Pre-Reunion in August 2014. Roll bar stickers further confirm participation in these events.

Current Condition and Presentation

Today this event ready March 722 presents with excellent cosmetics and proper mechanical preparation consistent with regular care and service performed by Intrepid Motorcars. The quality of the paint is consistent with vintage race cars offering smooth coverage on the various removable body sections and adhesive sponsor graphics with #44 markings. The dramatic low stance, staggered width Avon tires and black wheels, beautifully polished exposed suspension, and mechanical features contribute to the dynamic visual presentation of this purposeful race car. With the lightweight front body panel removed, the sparse but effective construction is all the more impressive with the level of finish dedicated to each of the specialized titanium components. A pair of low-profile carbon fiber side view mirrors flank a low-profile clear screen. The polished aluminum riveted construction front spoiler and rear wing are positioned to maximize downforce for both frontal stability and improved rear traction at higher speeds. The side radiators, a feature new to the 722 design, makes for a lower profile nose and a smaller, wind-cheating frontal cross section. The rear engine design features an angled side intake scoop positioned to capture fast air from the top surface of the radiator body shroud. A spare body panel can be fitted to the top of the engine and is included with the car finished in matching red body color.

The cockpit is efficient and very well laid out with key instrumentation behind the padded, removable Momo steering wheel. The cockpit is finished with polished flat panel aluminum features, purple rivet buttons on selected panel bonds, and a decorated roll bar featuring various vintage race event participation stickers affixed to the bar. A Willans racing harness (dated to 2027), polished gear shift handle, and 722-12 March Engineering chassis plate mounted to the dash cowl are a few of the notable features in the cockpit. Professional attention is evident at every corner of this car including beautifully polished hardware and suspension components, inboard Lockheed AP ventilated rear brakes, a beautifully formed four-in-one header, top-of-the-line hardware, fasteners, and hydraulic lines.

At the rear of the car, Cosworth engine, rear suspension, and towering rear wing are all beautifully exposed to the delight of any fan of motorsports engineering. The purposefully built and beautifully detailed Vegher built Ford Cosworth engine is outfitted with twin Weber 48DCOE dual throat carburetors which is reported by the current owner to have just a handful of test hours logged since the build was completed. Lightly hued bundle of snakes tuned exhaust and massive rear wheel racing slicks deliver a fantastic visual impression consistent with the track performance these Formula Atlantic series cars achieved in period.

The car is accompanied by extensive mechanical spares including:

- Top portion body section in white (unfinished)
- Engine cover finished in red
- One set of wheels
- Assorted brake discs
- Assorted suspension arms
- Six boxed springs and four unboxed springs
- A rear suspension upright
- A spare cam driver belt
- Ferodo Racing boxed brake pads
- Various Champion spark plugs
- A spare exhaust tip with four-in-one collector section
- Two spare CV boot kits
- Fram Racing oil filter
- Spare distributor
- Several other spare mechanical parts, gaskets, and hardware

Professionally prepared, properly maintained, and ready for your next vintage racing event or track day, this March 722 is perfectly poised for the next dedicated vintage racing enthusiast to experience the thrill of racing at any of the top racing venues hosting vintage track events.

The above vehicle information is complete and accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time it is posted to this website. Corrections or additional information is always appreciated. All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. Vehicles are subject to prior sale. All advertised to be true but not guaranteed. We assume no liability for errors or omissions.

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Fantasy Junction  •  510-653-7555  •  1145 Park Ave, Emeryville, CA 94608