1969 Lotus Formula Car

Make

Lotus

Model

Formula Car

Year

1969

Listed price

$22,000

Location

Sneads Ferry, North Carolina

Transmission

Manual

Mileage

0 miles

The Lotus Type 61, introduced in 1969, was Colin Chapman’s answer to the burgeoning Formula Ford series, a class designed to be an accessible entry point into single-seater racing. Following on from the successful Type 51, the 61 refined the spaceframe chassis design, offering improved aerodynamics and handling characteristics. With approximately 248 examples built across its various iterations (61, 61M, and 61MX), the Type 61 quickly became a dominant force on grids worldwide, cementing Lotus's reputation not only for Grand Prix cars but also for producing highly competitive customer race cars that launched the careers of many aspiring drivers. Its simplicity, robustness, and agile performance made it a favorite among privateers and club racers, embodying the pure essence of driving. This particular Lotus Type 61, chassis number 97, is a beautifully preserved example of that golden era of Formula Ford. Power comes from its original Holbay 1.6-liter engine, number LH 189, paired with a Hewland Mark VI manual gearbox. Acquired by its current owner in 1976, this car boasts a fascinating history, having been raced extensively across Florida and the Southeast at tracks like Miami-Hollywood Speedway, Daytona's short course, and Atlanta before its long-term stewardship. Though it saw only light autocross use under current ownership, it has been meticulously maintained in a climate-controlled environment, benefitting from a recent refresh including a gear reduction starter and solenoid for easy starts. It runs and drives beautifully, a testament to decades of careful ownership. This is a rare opportunity to acquire a piece of Lotus racing heritage, ready for the track or a connoisseur's collection.