Equipment
2498/225 Coventry Climax FPF, dual Webers, sequential 5-speed, yellow "wobbly web" wheels, inboard rear brakes, red leather-wrapped steering wheel.
Condition
#3 Good
Runs and drives well. Flaws not noticeable to passersby. Most common condition.
F1 spec car, the last of six 18s built for Team Lotus. Driven in period by Jim Clark (3rd at Portuguese GP, 2nd at Snetterton Lombank Trophy), Graham Hill, John Surtees, Innes Ireland, Trevor Taylor, and Ron Flockhart (6th at French GP). Restored in the 2000s and in race car condition with some dirt and grime, mild cracks in the paint, worn seat, and faded interior. None of that matters, though, as this Lotus had seat time with some of Britain’s all-time great drivers at multiple Grands Prix and non-championship races.
Market commentary
The 18 was a groundbreaking car from a groundbreaking carmaker. It was Lotus' first mid-engine car and in 1960 was the first Lotus to win an F1 race. It was versatile, too. Depending on what engine it ran, the 18 competed in Formula 1, Formula 2, and Formula Junior. This one looks great, has really good if not exceptional history, and is eligible for all sorts of historic events, so it's seriously undervalued at this final price, if you ask me.