The highly distinctive 711 was the second Formula 1 car produced by Macrh Engineering. Its design changed radically compared to the 701 of 1970. The 711 had side radiators and inboard front brakes, though these were moved to the outboard later in the season. But the most prominent feature of the car was the aerodynamics developed by Frank Costin. The large elliptical front wing, described as Spitfire (because of its shape) or "tea tray" (because of its elevation relative to the car), the high sides of the cabin that merge into a fairing, the full engine cover and the aerodynamic profile rear make the car very efficient aerodynamically. STP Corporation disbanded its own team, but continued to support the factory team. Ronnie Peterson was signed as the primary driver for the STP March Racing team. The Swedish pilot showed an excellent performance. He did not get any wins, but finished second on four occasions, finishing as runner-up in the World Championship. The most exciting race of the season was the Italian Grand Prix at Monza. The first five cars were beaten by 0.61s. It was the closest finish in World Championship history and the fastest race in history, with an average speed of 242.615 km/h. Peterson, on March 721, was second at Monza. The characteristic front airfoil was not used on this circuit due to its probable instability at very high speeds.