The first Ligier Formula 1, the JS5, was an excellent car, designed by Gérard Ducarouge together with Beaujon and Carillo. Development on the Matra engine had continued and the V12 type MS73 for 1976 was giving around 520 horsepower. The aerodynamics were developed by Robert Choulet of sera. The large air intake was eliminated to comply with the regulations that came into force in the middle of the 1976 season. Driven by Jacques Laffite, the JS5 achieved good results, allowing Guy Ligier's team to finish fifth in the constructors' championship with 20 points.