Description
For Sale: 1955 Lotus Mk. VI – An Iconic Racing Legend with Unmatched Provenance
C20 Motorcars in Chichester, West Sussex, is thrilled to offer an extraordinary opportunity to own one of the most famous and historically significant Lotus Mk. VIs ever built. This 1955 Lotus Mk. VI (Registration: 888 FME, Chassis No. 0068, Engine No. 24047) is a true piece of motorsport history. With an extensive racing pedigree, this remarkable machine is a must-have for any serious classic car collector or enthusiast.
Key Details:
Chassis Number: 0068
Engine Number: 24047
Registration: 888 FME
This stunning Lotus Mk. VI has been lovingly maintained with no expense spared by its Mike Brotherwood, and is equipped with the original de Dion axle and finned drum set-up—making it one of the rarest and most coveted examples in existence. Only four Lotus Mk. VIs were ever built with this de Dion rear suspension, which elevates this car into the realm of the truly exceptional.
A True Race-Bred Legend: This car isn’t just a beautiful classic—it's a genuine thoroughbred racing machine. Noted motoring writer Andrew Willis famously described this Lotus Mk. VI as “the original thoroughbred racer,” perfectly capturing its ethos. Built by Colin Chapman, the genius behind Lotus, this car is everything Chapman intended: lightweight, finely tuned for handling, and engineered to dominate on the track. Chapman’s philosophy, "Adding power makes you faster on the straights. Subtracting weight makes you faster everywhere," is vividly embodied in this Lotus, which consistently outperformed more powerful competitors thanks to its precision engineering and sublime handling.
Powering this rare Lotus Mk. VI is an MG XPAG 1350cc engine, upgraded with a Laystall cylinder head, and mated to an MG TC gearbox. Coupled with its Mk. IX de Dion rear axle and finned drum brakes, this is a car that feels as connected to the road today as it did in its prime racing days.
Racing History That Tells a Story: This isn’t just a car; it’s a part of motorsport history. Its competition credentials are second to none, having been driven by some of the most respected names in racing:
1958: Le Mans driver John Hine competed in the David Brown Trophy Endurance Race at Silverstone, marking the beginning of this car’s illustrious racing career.
1977-2002: Chris Smith of Westfield Cars took the wheel and raced extensively, winning the AMOC Sports Car Trophy in 1979 and making a memorable appearance at the 2001 Goodwood Revival.
1980s: The car crossed the Atlantic and competed in the VSCCA series at Lime Rock under the stewardship of Jerry Morici, then continued its success in the hands of Ralph Stechow at hill climbs and races around North America.
2003-2006: Steve Cropley, editor of Autosport, raced this Lotus at club-level events and hill climbs, continuing its legacy of performance.
The history file on this Lotus Mk. VI is as rich and thorough as its racing pedigree. It includes HSCC Vehicle Identity Forms, and official race programmes from legendary circuits such as Donington, Goodwood, Silverstone, Brands Hatch, and Thruxton. With detailed timing sheets and race results, this car’s competition history is thoroughly documented. Current FIA papers have expired.
Meticulously Maintained and Ready for Action: This Lotus Mk. VI is not just a museum piece; it’s a car that has been maintained and raced with great care. The current owner has recently invested in a rebuild of the top end, fitting a new aluminium cylinder head and completely overhauling the gearbox. It’s ready to race or show—whether on track at prestigious historic events or displayed proudly in a collection.
A Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunity: This is an extremely rare opportunity to own one of the most significant Lotus Mk. VIs in existence. With its combination of historical importance, racing success, and original specifications, this is a car that will only increase in value. If you're seeking a car with a genuine racing pedigree and the thrilling driving experience that only a Lotus can deliver, this is your chance.
Contact C20 Motorcars: For more information or to arrange a viewing, contact C20 Motorcars today. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to own this exceptional 1955 Lotus Mk. VI, available now
