Page 1 of 2 Next >> Among the 'newfangled' mid-engined racers that lined up for the historic Indy 500 in 1965 were a pair of Lola T80s. While Lotus managed to convert its third attempt into a ground-breaking victory, its rivalling British racing car builder made a less conspicuous debut. Al Unser finished seventh and Bud Tingelstad in the sister car was forced to retire after losing a wheel. The first Indy 500 attempt, however, provided valuable lessons for Lola founder Eric Broadley and his team. These were incorporated in the new-for-1966 T90.
Like its predecessor, the T90 was built around a full length aluminium monocoque. This allowed for a variety of engines to be fitted. At the front in-board suspension was used, which was actuated by the top rockers. At the rear, a very wide lower wishbone was fitted with a single top link and trailing arm. In oval racing trim, the suspension was off-set to the left. Disc brakes were fitted on all four corners and a sturdy Hewland gearbox was used. The T90 was clothed in a fibreglass body, which was built by Specialised Mouldings.
Three T90s were built and each was entered by the team of Houston oil baron John Mecom. The first example was fitted with a turbocharged Offenhauser engine and fielded for two-time Indy 500 winner Rodger Ward. The other two cars were equipped with the twin-cam, naturally aspirated Ford V8 engine. These two T90s were driven by Indy rookies but experienced Formula 1 racers Graham Hill and Jackie Stewart.
All three Lolas qualified for the race with Stewart starting 11th, Ward 13th and Hill 15th. The start of the race was, to put it mildly, eventful with a massive accident that took out eleven cars. Once the race had re-started, Stewart worked his way up the field, as did Hill. By lap 175, they were running in first and second. Sadly, Stewart's Ford V8 lost its oil pressure and was forced to retire. That left Hill to pick up the pieces, scoring a victory at what was Lola's second attempt. Page 1 of 2 Next >>
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Among the 'newfangled' mid-engined racers that lined up for the historic Indy 500 in 1965 were a pair of Lola T80s. While Lotus managed to convert its third attempt into a ground-breaking victory, its rivalling British racing car builder made a less conspicuous debut. Al Unser finished seventh and Bud Tingelstad in the sister car was forced to retire after losing a wheel. The first Indy 500 attempt, however, provided valuable lessons for Lola founder Eric Broadley and his team. These were incorporated in the new-for-1966 T90.