During qualifying for the 2016 European Grand Prix, the FW38 set the highest ever recorded speed of a Formula One car during an official session, at 378 km/h (235 mph).[2]
During the 2016 Mexican Grand Prix, the FW38 set the second highest ever recorded speed of a Formula One car during a race, at 372.5 km/h (231.5 mph).[3]
The car proved to be competitive in the early stages of the championship, with Massa and Bottas securing points finishes for the first half of the season. However, lack of upgrades on the car meant that the team could not keep up with other teams during the later stages, such as Ferrari, Force India, and Red Bull Racing, and eventually lost 4th place in the constructors' championship to Force India.
Radical rear wing
On 17 May, two days after the Spanish Grand Prix, Williams tested a new radically rear wing design with a winglets on the side; similar to the cars from 1983-1984. The car was test driven by Alex Lynn.
Sponsorhip and livery
For the third year, Williams continued to use the Martini livery as their title sponsor. Alcohol laws meant Williams could not use their red Martini stripes in Abu Dhabi, instead using a blue livery.
At the Brazilian Grand Prix, Massa's car had his name placed on the engine cover and rear wing, in defence to the Martini logos.
Complete Formula One results
(key) (results in bold indicate pole position; results in italics indicate fastest lap)
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