The Honda RA272 Formula One car used a V12 engine. Its engine was the 1.5-litre Honda RA272E, a technically advanced naturally aspirated unit.
The RA272 competed during the final season of Formula One’s 1.5-litre engine regulations in 1965. Honda mounted the V12 transversely behind the driver in a rear-midship layout, an unusual arrangement that helped keep the car compact but made the engine relatively wide.
The 48-valve engine displaced about 1,495 cc and produced roughly 230 horsepower in its period specification, with later development reportedly raising output further. It could rev to around 14,000 rpm for short periods, demonstrating Honda’s emphasis on high-revving, precise engineering.
Most rivals used V8 engines, so the RA272’s V12 configuration was distinctive. The car also became historically important when Richie Ginther drove it to Honda’s first Formula One World Championship victory at the 1965 Mexican Grand Prix. The following season brought new three-litre regulations, prompting Honda to develop the larger RA273.