Lotus 18 (ex-Tyrell/Surtees/Taylor)

Cooper may have introduced the mid-engined layout to post-war motor racing, but the Lotus 18 was the car which proved once and for all that a mid-engined car was the only one to have. It was the first Lotus to win a World Championship race. It was the vehicle for some of Stirling Moss\' greatest drives, like the 1961 Monaco Grand Prix. It made stars of Innes Ireland, Jim Clark and John Surtees. Chassis number 754 was purchased in September 1960 by Ken Tyrell and driven on its first outing by John Surtees at the Oulton Park Gold Cup on 24th September 1960. Driven by Henry Taylor, chassis 754 then went on to win the British Empire Trophy in October of that year. It then went on to race in the United States, and was restored there in 1998. It was purchased by the current owner in 2006 and has since been rebuilt completely to its original specification with the correct Ford race-prepared 105E engine and Renault Dauphine gearbox with Hewland gears. At the hands of the current owner, chassis 754 went on to win the 2008 British Formula Junior Championship and has also entered the Chichester Cup at the Goodwood Revival in 2010. The car comes with a comprehensive spares package including the original Lotus gearbox which has been rebuilt, new wheels and tyres, shock absorbers, original brake drums and bodywork panels, worth in excess of £10,000. The car’s detail is presented in a history file with photographs, invoices and current FIA papers. For those that have a passion for Colin Chapman designs, this entry level Formula Junior will give the new owner a racer with winning potential as well as a ticket to participate in some of Europe\'s best events. Estimate: £55,000 - £65,000 This car will be auctioned by Coys of Kensington during their forthcoming sale at the Autosport Show, 15th January 2011 at the NEC in Birmingham. For more details please contact the Coys Auction Department on 020 8614 7888 or visit us online at www.coys.co.uk

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