The first F.1 March was designed more to be reliable than innovative, even if Pater Wright sought some original solutions to obtain better aerodynamic efficiency. For the rest, however, it was a rather conventional single-seater, with the classic Ford Cosworth engine. The 701 did not prove to be up to the competition (especially Lotus 72 and Ferrari 312) even if it achieved some prestigious results. Several leading drivers drove the 701, such as Chris Amon, Mario Andretti, Derek Bell, Ronnie Peterson, François Cévert, Jo Siffert, Jackie Stewart.