In December, we traditionally take a look at the finest cars that we saw and/or were launched during the year. This year is no exception as today we have highlighted the legendary Lotus 38 Ford. This is the very car used by Jim Clark to win the Indy 500 in 1965. It proved to be a historic victory as it was the first for a mid-engined car, the first for a Ford engine, the first for a British car and Clark was the first foreign winner since 1915. Clark was also the first driver to complete the 500-mile race with an average of over 150 mph (241 km/h). Ford retained the winning car after the race and for many years it was proudly displayed in the lovely 'Henry Ford' museum. Last year the decision was made to have the car restored to full running order and the Lotus 38 was handed to Classic Team Lotus, where some of the machine's original builders lent a hand. They carefully preserved the car's unique original condition, replacing only consumables like rubber seals and hoses. Clark's winning Lotus made its post restoration debut at Goodwood Festival of Speed, where it ran under its own power for the first time since 1965. It was driven by event host Lord March and Sir Jackie Stewart who, as a touching tribute to his late friend and rival, wore a replica of Clark's helmet. Later in the year chassis 38/1 was also show at Pebble Beach and demonstrated by 2010 Indy winner and fellow Scot, Dario Franchitti, at the 'Brickyard'.
We captured the Lotus 38 in great detail at Goodwood and were fortunate enough to snap some details with the panels removed. This has resulted in a 18-shot gallery to illustrate our in-depth article.
Despite the time of the year, some new cars were also announced this week. Vauxhall revealed the latest VXR8. The Holden/HSV based sedan features a 431 bhp engine. Ahead of the official launch at Detroit, Honda released a sketch of the Civic Concept, which in itself is a preview of the upcoming new Civic. Cadillac announced its return to racing in 2011 when it will field the CTS-V Coupe Race Car in the SCCA World Challenge.
Enjoy the links:
1965 Lotus 38 Ford - Images, Specifications and Information
2011 Cadillac CTS-V Coupe Race Car - Images, Specifications and Information
2011 Honda Civic Concept - Images, Specifications and Information
2011 Vauxhall VXR8 - Images, Specifications and Information
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Originally Posted by csl177
