1970 Lotus 61 Formula Ford Project

History

The Lotus was raced in the U.S. Northeast in the early 1970’s and 1980’s. It was then stored in the owner’s home garage for the next 35 years.

Restoration was begun as a father and son project, but stalled when the father became ill and unable to continue with the project. The car is now being sold as a running, driving historic Lotus Formula Ford project.

Description

This Lotus began life in classic Gold Leaf Team Lotus colors, red gelcoat on top and white gelcoat on the bottom. That bodywork was later painted purple. The car now comes with new, lightweight, two piece, Peter Denty Lotus bodyworkd from England to be fitted to the car.

Four new brake calipers, and new master cylinders have been installed on the Lotus. One brake disc was replaced. The Lotus also comes with another spare new brake disc. The original Goodyear tires have been replaced with 2023 Avon tires with several sessions on them.

It is unknown if the engine and gearbox are the original Lotus Holbay engine and Hewland gearbox for this this specific Lotus 61, but they may be. Regardless, are correct for this car. The engine runs fine, and the four speed Hewland also shifts fine.

Spares include new axle donuts still in their packaging. A new current set of seatbelts (minus one shoulder belt that was somehow lost) comes with the car as well.

The fuel tank is still the car’s original tank, not a fuel cell. The plan was to  purchase a standard small formula car “wedge” fuel cell but it was not obtained before work on the car ceased.

This is a worthwhile project for someone who has more time and enthusiasm than money that would like to go Formula Ford racing. For probably a few thousand more for a fuel cell, new brake lines, some body fitting and paint, new rod ends, etc., you could go Formula Ford racing in a classic Lotus for about half of some other, non-Lotus, Formula Ford. This has to be one of the least expensive running/operating Lotus racing cars available anywhere. It even still has its original chassis tag on it.

The Lotus is currently located in Western Massachusetts.

All vehicle descriptions are accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time of writing. Corrections, and supplemental information, are always welcome. Buyers are responsible for confirming vehicle histories, condition, and authenticity to their own satisfaction prior to purchase. Motorsports Market is not the owner of the vehicle and assumes no liability for errors and omissions.

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