1960 LOTUS SERIES 1-11

Researched in depth by respected Lotus historian Graham Capel, and confirmed by the Historic Lotus Register, this Series 1 Short Door Le Mans Eleven chassis is understood to be amongst the first 50 chassis produced with the distinctive non-flanged front swing axle mounting, a feature of the first 25 Lotus Elevens.

Most intriguingly, the chassis incorporates what is now recognised as the rare ‘Chapman strut’ - an additional 5/8-inch vertical tube positioned inboard of the nearside upper spring-damper mounting .A few Team Lotus and important early customer cars had this extra tube welded into the front frame to stiffen against cornering distortion.

Motivation is provided by a 1,460cc Coventry Climax FWB engine fuelled through twin Weber DCOE carburettors and mated to a close-ratio straight-cut four-speed gearbox. De Dion rear suspension and a detachable rear fin are hallmarks of the model that established Lotus as a force in international sports car racing.

Whilst the car’s earliest competition history remains elusive, records confirm that by 1958 it was active in Ireland. It continued to compete throughout the late 1950s and early 1960s before a racing accident brought its active career to an end.

The damaged remains were discovered in Ireland by Paddy Dowling in 1974. During 1993/94 a replacement chassis was commissioned and a separate Eleven subsequently constructed. Significantly, the original damaged chassis, floorpan and transmission tunnel survived and became the foundation of the car presented today.

Acquired in 2013 by engineer Ryan Hodges, a specialist in 1950s and 1960s sports-racing machinery, the surviving original chassis was painstakingly restored. Following Capel’s confirmation of its importance, Hodges sourced correct components and recommenced the rebuild. The Coventry Climax FWB engine was rebuilt by Norman Vankoningsweld to original Lotus specification, benefiting from a small number of accepted period-style enhancements. The front 'clamshell' and rear hinged tail section have been formed in fibreglass.

Purchased by the current owner in 2015, the project was completed by professionals to the highest standard. Great care was taken throughout to preserve authenticity and ensure faithful adherence to original Lotus practice. In period, Elevens were nearly always road-registered and used for a variety of motorsport disciplines, even as a daily driver, so the decision was taken to finish this example for road use and it was suitably prepared (lights, horn, speedo, indicators etc.) and subsequently registered with the DVLA as 548 UYT.

With advanced aerodynamics by Frank Costin and engineering input from the legendary Colin Chapman, the Lotus Eleven is widely considered one of the most successful and beautiful racing cars Lotus ever produced, fundamentally establishing the company’s international reputation and it's gratifying that this early car was discovered and carefully returned to life.