Verstappen at the wheel of the legendary V272-powered Honda RA12

V12 engine, 1,5L, foot clutch, and no seat belt, it's a real leap into the past that took Max Verstappen ahead of the Japanese Grand Prix. 

Before heading to Suzuka, the Dutchman Red Bull Racing went to the Honda test factory in Tochigi where he was able to climb aboard the RA272 which had won the 1965 Mexican Grand Prix, the Japanese manufacturer's first success in the premier category.

@Max33Verstappen and @TakumaSatoRacer take two legends for a drive @ HondaRacingF1 #JapaneseGP

— Aston Martin Red Bull Racing (@redbullracing) October 10, 2019

Verstappen then took the wheel of the title-winning RB7 in 2011, while the former driver F1 and winner of the Indianapolis 500 takuma sato took over from him at the wheel of the RA272.

“It’s probably the oldest car I’ve ever driven, commented Verstappen. The feeling is very different but I had fun behind the wheel with pure emotions emanating from the engine and the car itself. It was incredible. I didn't fully fit into the cockpit but what an experience!

Max, meet the Honda RA272 #PoweredByHonda pic.twitter.com/cizaUvBzob

- Honda Racing F1 (@ HondaRacingF1) October 10, 2019

I'm glad I was born way after the car but very grateful to have been able to try it. I don't think I could have driven it competitively: the sport has made huge strides in 50 years! When I climbed aboard the Red Bull RB7 afterwards, the first difference I noticed was the presence of seat belts. 

Finally, with the RA272, I had to shift gears with a foot clutch, it had been a while since I had done that. »

If Verstappen were to win on the grounds of the Japanese manufacturer this Sunday, there is no doubt that his Honda-powered Red Bull RB15 would also enter the Japanese legend.