1956 Lotus Mk VI

Background:

The Lotus VI is the first Lotus production car, developed by Colin Chapman from his own competition vehicles, around a space-frame chassis which weighed just 25kg, giving an all-up weight of around 435kg – surely the origins of Chapman’s much-quoted tenet: ‘simplify and add lightness.’

The VI was made available to customers as a kit – not least to avoid Purchase Tax, but also to simplify production and to allow owners to fit an engine suitable for its intended use. Produced from 1952 to 1957, examples were widely used for competition in disciplines as varied as circuit racing and off-road trials. Many will also have provided transport to and from competition venues and, frequently, everyday transport.

The kits were comprehensive, with all the specialised components supplied, along with the aluminium body – produced by Williams and Pritchard, based close to Lotus’s Hornsea works in North London. Many of the mechanical parts were sourced from the Ford Prefect, including the commonly used 1,172cc sidevalve four-cylinder engine and three-speed gearbox.

The VI really launched Lotus Cars as a manufacturer of competitive customer racing cars, as they became frequent winners on Britain’s racetracks, regularly beating rivals that were both more powerful, more expensive, or both. With this success as the foundation of his new company, Chapman never looked back.

The car:

This charming Mk VI dates from the second year of manufacture (1956) and – like so many of its cousins – is powered by the ever-popular Ford sidevalve four. This example, like many, has been adapted by its owners to suit their requirements, and in particular, 7 APF benefits from the Elva overhead inlet valve conversion with twin carbs, plus Buckler gears, for improved performance all round.

This is chassis number 51 of approximately 110 produced during the VI’s life. It was lovingly restored in the 1980s and now – nearly four decades later – it has taken on a wonderful patina. It has clearly been used and cherished by its enthusiast owners. Whilst cosseted, it does have the odd stone chip commensurate with use. The vendor also advises that the paint has a little crack on the passenger side section of the back panel.

Finished in British Racing Green, with traditional Lotus yellow Ballamy disc wheels, the car features a simple aero screen and a black vinyl interior, typical of the stripped-back nature of the marque.

Either behind the large steering wheel or from outside, this wonderful example could not be mistaken for anything other than a Lotus and it will undoubtedly reward its new owner with a remarkably pure driving experience, whether in Historic competition or on the road.

Summary:

A stunning example of a landmark Lotus, perfectly presented and suitable both for Historic competition and road use.

Location: Bedfordshire
Seller: Trade
Photos: Professional