After building multiple trial cars Colin Chapman introduced his first 'production' car in 1952. The heart of the Mark VI, as it was called, was a custom-built tubular frame. To this frame various Ford derived parts were fitted, the suspension, gearbox and engine. It was available to the general public as kit with various options like a stronger rear axle to cope with more powerful engine.
Like many of Chapman's designs the VI was a very simple one, yet very effective. It was praised for its very fine handling characteristics. Its fine handling helped its drivers to beat cass that looked much more sophisticated.
After VI's production run Colin Chapman's Lotus had established itself as a genuine manufacturer with a bright future ahead.
This Mark VI is seen in a pit box of the Dutch Zandvoort track where the Dutch Lotus club celebrated their 25th anniversary at the 2002 British Racing Festival.
Article by Wouter Melissen, last updated before 12 / 01 / 2004
I didn't realise the 6 was so old! Who would have thought the design would still be influencing cars over 50 years later. It just goes to show that the best ideas are simplest.
General specifications
Country of origin
Great Britain
Numbers built
around 110
Produced from
1952 - 1955
Engine
Configuration
Ford E93A Straight 4
Location
Front, longitudinally mounted
Displacement
1.172 liter / 71.5 cu in
Bore / Stroke
63.5 mm (2.5 in) / 92.5 mm (3.6 in)
Valvetrain
2 valves / cylinder, Side-valve
Fuel feed
SU Carburettors
Aspiration
Naturally Aspirated
Drivetrain
Chassis/body
aluminium body on tubular frame
Front suspension
split swing-axle, coil springs over dampers
Rear suspension
live axle, coil springs over dampers
Steering
worm-and-peg
Brakes
Ford / Girling drums, all-round
Gearbox
Ford 3 speed Manual
Drive
Rear wheel drive
Dimensions
Weight
432 kilo / 952.4 lbs
Length / Width / Height
3073 mm (121 in) / 1308 mm (51.5 in) / 775 mm (30.5 in)
Wheelbase / Track (fr/r)
2210 mm (87 in) / 1245 mm (49 in) / 1143 mm (45 in)