Bill Aston was a British racing driver whose name is closely associated with the short-lived but ambitious Aston Butterworth racing car, Aston’s career spanned decades and disciplines—from motorcycle racing to Formula One.
| Nationality | British |
|---|---|
| Born | William Simpson Aston 29 March 1900 Hopton, Staffordshire, England, UK |
| Died | 4 March 1974 (aged 73) Lingfield, Surrey, England, UK |
Before stepping into the spotlight of Grand Prix racing, Aston built his reputation as a skilled test pilot and motorcycle racer. He eventually shifted his focus to four-wheel competition, beginning in Formula Three with a Cooper-JAP. His progression to Formula Two came naturally, driven by his growing interest in open wheel racing
In 1951, Aston nearly achieved a breakthrough at the Chimay circuit in Belgium, where he was leading a heat race in an 1,100 cc Cooper before mechanical failure struck on the final lap. That same year, he etched his name into the record books by setting a world speed record in the 500 cc category at Montlhéry. The record-setting run was made in a streamlined Cooper powered by a V-twin J.A.P. engine—an example of Aston’s blend of innovation and daring.
The following year marked Aston’s entry into the world of Formula One—albeit during a time when the World Championship was being contested under Formula Two regulations due to a shortage of F1 cars. Partnering with engineer and fellow racing enthusiast Archie Butterworth, Aston helped develop the Aston Butterworth, a sleek and promising race car that unfortunately suffered from persistent mechanical issues.
He entered the 1952 British Grand Prix with the car and managed to qualify, but in last position (30th). However, technical problems prevented him from starting the race. At the 1952 German Grand Prix later that year, he got off the line but the car failed him again—this time on just the second lap. His third and final World Championship attempt came at the 1952 Italian Grand Prix, where he was unable to qualify.
Despite these setbacks, the Aston Butterworth project symbolised a spirited effort by privateers competing against the factory-backed giants of the era. Though the car never reached its full potential, it remains a footnote in F1 History as a bold and innovative endeavour.
Aston never lost his love for racing. Even into his 60s, he continued to compete in club events behind the wheel of cars like the Mini and Jaguar’s. His long and varied career—spanning motorcycles, speed records, and Formula cars—reflected the era’s pioneering spirit and the role of privateers in shaping motorsport’s early decades.
Aston holds a notable record as the sixth oldest driver ever to start a Formula One race—at 52 years, 285 days old during the 1952 German Grand Prix, where he retired from the race.
Formula One History Recommends
Bill Aston Formula One World Championship career
| F1 Career | 1952 |
|---|---|
| Teams | Aston Butterworth |
| Entries | 3 (1 start) |
| Championships | 0 |
| Wins | 0 |
| Podiums | 0 |
| Career points | 0 |
| Pole positions | 0 |
| Fastest laps | 0 |
| First entry | 1952 British Grand Prix |
| Last entry | 1952 Italian Grand Prix |
