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Lotus Type 66 Specifications & Features
Lotus had missed the opportunity to participate in the original Can-Am championship, a goal it had fervently pursued. Now, over half a century later, the renowned British sports-car manufacturer is finally realizing its dream by crafting a limited series of the very car it had envisioned for one of motorsport’s most awe-inspiring racing series. A project that had remained dormant. Recently unveiled at The Quail as part of Monterey Car Week, the Lotus 66 stands as a testament to this belated endeavor. A mere ten units of these exclusive track-focused marvels will see the light of day, each adorned with a price tag reaching seven figures. Timed impeccably with Lotus’ 75th anniversary in 2023, the resurrection of this forgotten sports racer becomes a fitting tribute.
What’s New?
Last year, Lotus gave us a tantalizing glimpse of this car. Coinciding with the announcement of its production under the wing of the newly established Lotus Advanced Performance division. Today, the veil has been lifted from the Type 66 at The Quail in Monterey. Showcasing a vehicle that stands as a testament to Lotus’ unwavering commitment to revitalizing the finest aspects of its heritage. All while injecting them with an exhilarating modern twist. Remarkably, the contemporary Lotus brand places a higher emphasis on safety compared to the era of senior Chapman. This ethos resonates within the modern Type 66, seamlessly blending the technology and foundations of a contemporary race car. Underneath its carbon fiber exterior, reminiscent of the timeless race cars participating in the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion during Monterey Car Week. Lie concealed cutting-edge aerodynamic enhancements.
Lotus Type 66 Engine & Performance
Lotus has yet to confirm the specific engine manufacturer for the Type 66. However, they assure us it will boast a “period-representative V-8 pushrod” engine. This engine is meticulously crafted, flaunting a forged aluminum crank, pistons, and con rods. Notably, it showcases a breathtaking array of individual induction trumpets. Anticipated performance figures are remarkable. With an estimated 819 horsepower at 8800 rpm and 550 pound-feet of torque at 7400 rpm. Embracing a more contemporary approach, the new car’s structure integrates a central carbon-fiber tub.
The utilization of aluminum for body panels imparts a touch of classic aesthetics to its modern structure. Notably, Lotus has integrated electric power steering. A contemporary sequential racing transmission featuring an anti-stall mechanism, and an advanced ABS system. Enhancing the aerodynamic profile, a substantial rear-width wing has undergone extensive development – a luxury unavailable in the early 1970s. Lotus proudly reports investing over 1000 hours in Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) modeling for the creation of the Type 66. This effort has resulted in an impressive peak downforce exceeding 1764 pounds at 150 mph. A value surpassing the car’s overall weight, as touted by the company.
Lotus Type 66 Price & Launch Date
The upcoming Lotus Type 66 promises exceptional speed. With projections from simulator testing indicating its potential to match or even surpass the pace of contemporary front-running GT3 cars on various circuits. Remarkably, it’s anticipated to outperform certain tracks, including Laguna Seca. Nevertheless, a notable drawback of this track-focused marvel. A trait shared by many similar models is the absence of official racing opportunities. This limitation, however, could be circumvented if a collaborative effort among the exclusive group of 10 buyers—each having invested over £1 million (equivalent to $1.2 million at current exchange rates)—materializes, giving rise to a thrilling showdown to determine the fastest among them.