1979 Lotus 79

VIN: 795ML23

$374,654

Sold

Seller details

  • Auction

    Bonhams

  • Location

    Sydney, AU

  • Event date

    Nov 16, 2008

  • Lot

    61

Vehicle specs

  • Chassis/VIN

    795ML23

  • Body style

    Formula 1

  • Exterior Color

    Black "John Player Special"

Vehicle details

Notes and observations recorded by Hagerty staff.

Equipment

The ultimate pre ground effects Lotus F1 design and the last of its series. Driven by Mario Andretti to fourth at South Africa and the USGP and fifth in Italy in 1979. Also driven by Carlos Reuteman. Never crashed and in sound old race car condition, not pretty but altogether presentable. Owned by John Dawson Damer, and exchanged to him directly from Lotus, since 1984 it is original and an excellent display car but is far from track ready.

Market commentary

A very important piece of Formula 1 and Lotus history, and a pretty darn good looking old bolide, too. Its no bargain at this price, but it is a rare and important piece of the technical development history of Formula 1 which seems like it will stop in the next year or two as Bernie and Max introduce spec engines, gearboxes and rigidly controlled aerodynamics. The late 70s were a much more involving time, and the Lotus 79 is pretty well involved.

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