Lotus 49

Every now and again elements combine and the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. Colin Chapman’s design genius combined with Cosworth Engineering’s Ford V8 engine and one of the greatest F1 race cars was born. The Lotus 49 chassis when fitted with the delayed Ford Cosworth DFV 3 Litre V8 took the F1 world by storm, winning its first GP in South Africa in 1968 with the late Jim Clark at the wheel. The engine was strong enough to become part of the chassis, carrying the rear suspension without the need for any sub-frame, a first in F1 design, and saving weight in the process. There were teething problems with the engine but the potential was obvious.

The 49 became the first GP car to have aerofoil wings fitted to improve its grip and through its 2 year competitive lifespan saw various developments. The car illustrated here is a replica of the South African GP winner and is one of the last times Lotus raced in their team colours of British Racing Green and yellow. Another first for the car was when it appeared painted in the red cream and gold colours of a cigarette company, Gold Leaf, marking the start of substantial sponsorship in F1.

The Lotus 49 first raced in 1968 and its last race was in 1970. In that time it won 12 races and contributed to 2 Driver’s Championships and 2 Constructor’s Championships

Illustrator, gradients blends masks mesh, it all here.