LIGIER JS7 Matra

   For the French team Ligier Gitanes, 1977 represented an important test after its promising debut in the top series the previous season. The technical team, composed of Technical Director Gérard Ducarouge, Chief Designer Michel Beaujon, and Aerodynamics Head Robert Choulet, developed the new Ligier JS7, a natural evolution of the previous JS5, maintaining its key technical features.

LIGIER JS7, Jacques Laffite
Jarama, Spanish GP 1977

   The new chassis differed slightly from its predecessor due to the use of riveted aluminum alloy panels, which were lighter and stiffer. The engine remained the Matra MS76 V12 with a 60° configuration, capable of delivering 520 hp, paired with a Hewland TL 2-200 six-speed gearbox, the same as in the 1976 season. From an aerodynamic standpoint, the JS7 introduced significant modifications inspired by the Ferrari 312T2: the front wing extended across the entire width of the nose, integrating with the fairing of the front suspension. Two slits were created on the sides of the cockpit, serving as air intakes for the engine. The sidepods, long and slightly curved, housed the air intakes for the radiators, positioned ahead of the rear wheels. The engine cover, low and streamlined, completely enclosed the Matra V12, ensuring optimal airflow toward the rear wing.

LIGIER JS7, Jacques Laffite
Montecarlo, Monaco GP 1977

   After a difficult start to the season, the JS7 regained competitiveness from the fifth race onward, consistently fighting for top positions. With Jacques Laffite at the wheel, Ligier secured its first Formula 1 victory at the Swedish Grand Prix (Anderstorp), a historic triumph for F1 as well, as it was the first win by a car with a chassis, engine, and driver all entirely French.

LIGIER JS7, Jacques Laffite
Dijon Prenois, French GP 1977

   Beyond the Swedish success, Laffite also secured a second-place finish in the Netherlands (Zandvoort) and other strong results, allowing the team to collect 18 points and finish eighth in the Constructors' Championship. For the final race of the season, the Japanese Grand Prix at Fuji, Ligier fielded a second car, also entrusted to a French driver, Jean-Pierre Jarier.

LIGIER JS7, Jacques Laffite
 Anderstorp, Swedish GP 1977

   In 1978, the JS7 was still used by Laffite in the first two races of the season and later in four events under the designation JS7/9, a transitional version that introduced aerodynamic solutions that would later be perfected on the Ligier JS9.