It was driven by 1996 World Champion Damon Hill, who had moved from Arrows, and Ralf Schumacher, who was in his second season with the team.

[3][4] The 198 ran promisingly in pre-season testing, however the car struggled in the early part of the season.

[5] Numerous improvements were made to the 198's suspension, front wing and floor, while Mugen developed the engine.

[6] Further tyre development work by Goodyear enabled the team to enjoy a resurgence, scoring points in every race bar one in the second half of the season.

The team ultimately finished fourth in the Constructors' Championship with 34 points, four behind Williams in third and one ahead of Benetton in fifth.