Description
The Lotus 38, produced in 1965, was a significant racing car developed by the British manufacturer Lotus. Like its predecessor, the Lotus 38 was primarily designed for the purpose of competing in the Indianapolis 500, one of the most prestigious and demanding races in American open-wheel racing.
Key features and characteristics of the Lotus 38 include:
Engine: The Lotus 38 was powered by a Ford V8 engine. This choice marked a departure from the Offenhauser engines that had been popular in previous Indy 500 cars. The Ford V8 engine was specifically prepared for racing by the Ford Motor Company, and its adoption was a groundbreaking move.
Chassis: The Lotus 38 featured a lightweight and innovative monocoque chassis, which was a significant advancement in racing car design. This design contributed to improved weight distribution, handling, and overall performance.
Aerodynamics: The Lotus 38 had a sleek and aerodynamic design, with a distinctive wedge shape that helped reduce drag and improve high-speed stability, crucial characteristics for oval track racing.
Success: The most famous achievement of the Lotus 38 came in 1965 when it was driven to victory at the Indianapolis 500 by British racing legend Jim Clark. This victory was historic, marking the first time that a car powered by a mid-engined design (the Lotus 38) won the race. It also highlighted the potential of Ford's V8 engine for American motorsport.
Legacy: The Lotus 38 is a landmark car in the history of the Indianapolis 500 and motorsport in general. Its victory at the 1965 Indianapolis 500, along with the innovation of using a mid-engined car with a Ford engine, marked a significant turning point in the race's history. It laid the foundation for future race car designs and set new standards for performance and technology in American open-wheel racing.
In summary, the Lotus 38 is renowned for its groundbreaking use of a mid-engined design and a Ford V8 engine, which together led to a historic victory at the 1965 Indianapolis 500. It remains an iconic car in the world of motorsport and a testament to the innovation and engineering prowess of Lotus and Ford.