Defining a Formula One car

The technical regulations in effect determine what a Formula One car is – in very, very specific detail. These regulations go way beyond general definitions and principles; they stipulate dimensions so tightly that the layout of the cars is largely dictated by the rule book and not the designers. The technical regulations also to a large extent define engine and transmission specifications, as well as specs of brakes, suspension, tyres, and fuel. Some of the old-school ex-designers say that they left the sport precisely because the rule book and not designers determine what a Formula One car is. The regulations, they claim, took away their creativity. Others say that, because the parameters are so tightly defined, finding an advantage is that much more difficult and requires that much more skill. Take your pick between these two perspectives.
The technical regulations also stipulate specific performance criteria the cars must meet. Before they’re allowed to compete, each design of car has to pass severe crash tests that involve impact into solid objects and roll-over crashes, as well as static load tests. The severity of these tests is well beyond those required by law for roadgoing cars.
Why does the governing body control these things so tightly? Usually for reasons of cost containment or safety. Having more-open technical rules would pave the way for technology that only top teams could afford or lead to cars that were inherently less safe.