Lotus Mark VI
| Lotus Mark VI | |
|---|---|
Roadster | |
| Related | Ford Prefect |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | Ford side valve 1172 cc |
| Transmission | 3-speed manual |
| Chronology | |
| Predecessor | Lotus Mark V |
| Successor | Lotus Seven |
The Lotus Mark VI is the first production car by
Design
The Mark VI in many ways reflected Chapman's background in engineering: his designs resulted from a stress analysis of loads into the frame, they were extremely light (the 6' space frame weighed only 55 lbs (25 kg)), and the suspension incorporated the latest advances. The prototype chassis was built up by the Progress Chassis Company and the aluminium body was constructed by panel beaters Williams and Prichard. (Both firms would later furnish bodies and chassis for subsequent models.) The cheap and easily available mechanical parts were sourced from the Ford Prefect. The Mark VI became a common sight on Britain's racetracks and was a frequent winner, beating many more powerful and expensive cars; it earned praise for its handling and acceleration.[2]
An important facet of the success of the kit was Chapman's offering a comprehensive package in the Mark VI, including most of the special parts needed, and not just the chassis. The Mark VI chassis came with mounting points for several different engines including the 1172 cc (71.5ci)
Specifications
- Number built: approximately 110
- Weight: 432 kg (952 lb)
Drivetrain
- Engine: Ford E93A straight 4
- Engine location: front, longitudinally mounted
- Displacement: 1172 cc / 71.5 in³
- Valvetrain: 2 valves per cylinder, sidevalve
- Fuel feed: SU carburettors
- Aspiration: naturally aspirated
- Gearbox: Ford 3-speed manual
- Drive: rear wheel drive
Performance
- Power: 50 bhp / 37 kW at 5000 rpm
- Torque: 77 Nm / 57 ft·lbf at 3000 rpm
- BHP/litre: 43 bhp / litre (0.7 hp/ci)
- Power-to-weight ratio: 0.12 bhp / kg
- 0-60 mph: 15.0 s
- Top speed: 150 km/h (93 mph)
References
- ^ Ludvigsen (2010), pp. 153–154.
- ^ a b Setright, L.J.K, "Lotus: The golden mean", in Northey, Tom, ed. World of Automobiles (London: Orbis, 1974), Volume 11, p.1223.
Bibliography
- ISBN 978-1-84425-413-2.
- William Taylor, The Lotus Book: The Complete History of Lotus Cars Coterie Press, Limited.1998, pp. 20–21.