This Legendary Lotus F1 Speedster Could Be Yours for Less Than Half a Million!

The world of Formula 1 is a veritable treasure trove of engineering marvels, designed for the sole purpose of conquering the racetrack with speed, precision, and sheer power. Yet, tragically, many of these automotive masterpieces vanish from the public eye, their glory days on the asphalt a mere memory. This, however, is a fate not befitting all, especially not the icons deserving their own pedestals in the annals of history.

The tale of Formula 1 cars retiring from the track is not one of neglect or destruction; instead, these mechanical wonders often retreat into the seclusion of private collections, emerging only for the rare occasions they change hands at auctions. This is precisely the case for a particular race car built by Lotus, a name synonymous with racing royalty.

Imagine the possibility of sitting beside the same wheel once manned by racing legends. This isn't a mere fantasy for affluent enthusiasts of Lotus's racing legacy, especially concerning the auction-spectacle">Lotus-Climax Type 12. This vehicle isn't just any race car; it represents the starting line of Lotus's journey to seven Formula 1 constructor titles and six driver titles.

This spring signals a rare opportunity, as the current custodian of the Lotus-Climax Type 12 chassis 353 has decided to pass the torch. Destined for the auction block at the prestigious Les Grandes Marques à Monaco, this gem is ready to find a new home. But what makes this Lotus so special?

Labelled as one of the most historically significant British Formula 1 Grand Prix cars, this Lotus carries the weight of being the brand's inaugural F1 competitor. More impressively, it was the chariot for Graham Hill's debut in the series, a precursor to his celebrated career as a double Formula 1 world champion.

The genius behind this engineering marvel was none other than Colin Chapman, the visionary founder of Lotus. Today, the legacy continues as Chapman's name is honoured through a bespoke service for Lotus's current model lineup. The Type 12, particular chassis number 353, was a pioneer designed explicitly for the apex of motor racing competitions.

The lineage of the Type 12 is distinguished, with only seven produced and five gracing the tracks in the hands of Lotus drivers, including Graham Hill and Cliff Allison. Its prowess was undeniable, shown when Allison piloted it to impressive finishes in Formula 2, setting the fastest laps along the way.

Graham Hill's tenure with the Type 12 at Silverstone, equipped with a Coventry Climax engine, though not victorious, marked an indelible chapter in its history. After this race, the Lotus changed hands, embarking on a journey that would see it race under multiple owners, including being driven by Maria Theresa de Filippis, Formula 1's first female driver.

The Type 12's narrative was enriched by an adventurous Christmas Day joyride on public roads by racing journalist Denis Jenkinson. Dubbed the Figgy Pudding Grand Prix, this stunt, though ending prematurely due to a drive shaft failure, added a whimsical chapter to its storied existence.

Despite its tumultuous history, the Lotus has been meticulously restored and even commemorated in a book titled Lotus 12 Chassis No. 353: The History, penned by its current owner. Bonhams anticipates this historic racer to command a price between 290,000 and 390,000 euros; a modest sum for a piece of racing heritage that could easily crown any collection.

As the auction date approaches, anticipation builds for the future of this legendary racer, its legacy a testament to the innovation and spirit of Lotus and the gladiators of Formula 1's golden era. Stay tuned as we continue to track its journey, eager to witness the next chapter in the remarkable saga of the Lotus-Climax Type 12 chassis 353.