The BT42 was the first independent design by Gordon Murray, who worked previously as assistant designed at Motor Racing Development. The BT42 was a short-wheelbase car with a pronounced pyramid cross section making for unusual lines that were accentuated by the engine airboxes coming into vogue in 1973. There was nothing of significance common to the BT37 designed by Ron Tauranac. The DFV Cosworth engine was a stressed member, as a matter of course, and FG gearboxes were used. Main MRD works drivers Carlos Reutemann and Wilson Fittipaldi scored podiums (Reutemann in France and USA) and some points (16 by Carlos and 3 by Wilson), and Brabham finished the season in a respectable fourth place in the Championship. Third works car with various sponsorship occasionally was available for Andrea de Adamich, Rolf Stommelen and John Watson. Watson debuted in F1 in 1973 British Grand Prix driving Hexagon-sponsored BT37. In the US GP at Watkins Glen he drove new BT42 in Ceramica Pagnossin colors, but retired on lap 8 with engine failure.
| Season | Series | Event |
| 1973 | F1WC | USA GP |
| Driver | No. | Entrant |
| John Watson | 9 | Motor Racing Developments |
| Scale | Manufacturer | Collection |
| 1:43 | Spark | |
| Cat. No. | Quality | Rarity |
| S7094 | 
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