Page 1 of 1 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. Page 1 of 1