Formula One may be the pinnacle of motorsport, but that does not exempt the series from disregarding environmental concerns. With the FIA seeking to reduce F1 car fuel consumption and emissions, Pitpass.com has reported that small-displacement turbocharged engines could return as the mandated powerplant by 2013. Report: Formula 1 May Revive Turbo Engines in 2013 [Motor Trend].

The 2013 turbocharged engines will reportedly be restricted to 1.5 liters, just like those from the F1 turbo era of the 1970s and 1980s. This time around, however, only the inline-four configuration will be allowed, compared to the six- and eight-cylinder mills that formerly roamed the racetracks. The new engines would only need half the amount of fuel currently required to go the full race distance.

Nelson Piquet (1984)

For many, the turbo era (1977-1988) was one of the greatest in the history of the sport. However, as the 1,100 bhp monsters looked set to raise lap speeds ever higher, assisted by the increasing influence of aerodynamics, the FIA first sought to limit the power of the engines — before finally banning turbos for the 1989 season.

Frankly, I think the aborted KERS system from 2009 was a far better and even more eco-friendly move.