This is a rare opportunity to acquire a unique piece of F1 history: a genuine Lotus Type 18 (chassis #911), famously associated with the Borgward engine conversion pioneered by Bill Wolman.

The Lotus 18 cars

Introduced in 1960, the Lotus 18 was Colin Chapman’s first mid-engined design. It was unapologetically functional—Jim Clark famously described it as an "odd device which looked like a cigar tube with four wheels"—but its impact on Formula 1 history was monumental.

Interestingly, its first victory didn't come from the works team. It was the legendary Sir Stirling Moss, driving for the privateer Rob Walker Racing Team, who took the checkered flag at the 1960 Monaco Grand Prix.

Shortly after Moss’s success, Innes Ireland secured the first victory for the factory Team Lotus squad.

The car was so effective that it was adapted for Formula 2 and Formula Junior, dominating those categories and proving that the lightweight, mid-engine layout was the future of open-wheel racing.

The Lotus 18 Wolman Connection

• Pioneering Conversion: This car embodies a specific chapter in its racing life, featuring the Borgward four-cylinder engine conversion, a setup developed and championed by the renowned engineer Bill Wolman.

• The Borgward Advantage:  Wolman recognized the potential of the high-revving, mechanically efficient Borgward engine—specifically the 1.5-liter unit. engine was known for its overhead camshaft design and robust construction, offering a competitive alternative to the other power plants.

• Competitive Provenance: These very rare Borgward engined cars were known to be highly competitive and are documented in period racing literature, offering a unique blend of British chassis excellence and German engineering innovation.

Description & Specification

• Chassis: Genuine Lotus Type 18 chassis number 911. The Type 18 is celebrated for being the first mid-engined Lotus single-seater, a design configuration that quickly became the standard for Grand Prix racing.

• Engine: Period-correct Borgward 1.5 litre, four-cylinder engine and built to the competitive specification of the era. The engine was rebuilt in Italy and is currently maintained by the team at SETFORD & COMPANY in Exton, Hampshire.

• Transmission: Queer gearbox also rebuilt at SETFORD & COMPANY.

• Condition: This car is in period condition, although much work has been carried out and all components crack tested in 2022. It presents a high level of historical authenticity.

• Livery: Currently finished in the distinctive turquoise body with its nose in red as it was painted in period.

  A Collector's Opportunity

  This Lotus 18 Wolman-Borgward is not merely a race car; it is a documented piece of international racing history and innovation. It offers the next custodian the opportunity to:

  • Vintage Racing: Available to compete in prestigious historic racing series such as the HGPCA calendar, Goodwood and Monaco FIA or other vintage events. This stand out Lotus 18 would be welcome on any grid.

  The car is offered with a small selection of race spares.

PRICE: £ 325,000