Lotus reviving classic type 56

The American owner of this classic Lotus type 56 has opted to restore it to running condition, and who better to do that than Classic Team Lotus?

Propelled by a small aircraft engine, the unconventional wedge-shaped Lotus type 56 is a gas turbine-powered four-wheel drive marvel that nearly claimed the 1968 Indianapolis 500 in an era before wings added vital downforce.

The lightweight type 56 was perfectly suited to the oblong-shaped Indianapolis circuit, relying on heavy suspension tuning to get it around the corners.

Its high power output and firm suspension set-up saw it well placed to take out the win, with all four cars built by Lotus performing well enough to look like claiming victory.

However, tragedy struck when a fatal accident occurred with driver Mike Spence at the wheel, writing off one type 56. Of the three remaining cars, Graham Hill’s and Art Pollard’s were on a good footing to claim victory ahead of pole-sitter Joe Leonard.

Sadly for Lotus, it wasn’t meant to be. Hill crashed out due to suspension failure, while Leonard and Pollard suffered fuel pump failures with only a handful of laps to go.

Changes to the rules were implemented in the wake of such an outstanding performance from the Lotus type 56 cars, limiting the power of gas turbine-powered cars and leaving the Lotus type 56 without teeth.

However, a lasting impression was left. The design of the Lotus type 56 highlighted the importance of aerodynamics and properly tuned suspension, and influenced many race cars for years to come.

Clive Chapman, son of the legendary Colin Chapman and managing director of Classic Team Lotus says he is “delighted that Classic Team Lotus has been entrusted with this exciting project”.

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