Lotus Engineering’s release of the Eleven in 1956 marked a significant milestone for the marque in the motorsport world. Designed by Colin Chapman and styled by Frank Costin, it was built to perform.
For some, it looked as sexy as a D-Type Jag with aluminium body panels elegantly wrapped around the frame, making it lightweight and aerodynamic. Underneath, the cleverly-engineered space frame chassis and suspension design provided superior manoeuvrability.
Weighing in at a sprightly 450kg, the Lotus Eleven was available with various engines, including a Ford 10 side-valve, 1098cc and 1460cc SOHC