Colin Chapman designed the original Lotus 23B sports racing car and was introduced in 1962 and would achieve such a high level of competition success that the French ACO banned it from appearing at Le Mans, knowing that no other car in its class would have the capability to keep pace.
The small-capacity racer was successful in national and International sports-racing car competition not only in the British home market but also virtually throughout the countries of Europe, the USA, Canada, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand.
It became one of the Lotus marque's biggest-selling pure-bred racing cars and was the last small-capacity pure-bred sports-racing car to be designed from the ground up by Colin Chapman and his team.
There were a number of replica cars built using the chassis’ build by Henry Toombs._RMP0340.jpg1.41 MB
The History
The current owner bought this car from the builder of the car, with the intention to do track days, however, unfortunately, due to a change in personal health reasons, the car won’t be used.
The seller is also including the trailer that would be used to transport the car to the race track, which seems to be in good condition._RMP0357.jpg514.75 KB
The Paperwork
This car comes with a quite staggering detailed build receipt. Every receipt has been retained (ALL 120 OF THEM), numbered and cross referenced in a book which need to be seen to be believed and appreciated - it really is remarkable.
It also comes with a fully documented build photo history on a USB pen drive and even a bespoke wiring diagram._RMP0370.jpg957.06 KB
The Interior
There isn’t a lot of interior to talk about, but the interior that is in this car is absolutely superb condition and all working as it should do.
The car is low to the ground, you step “into” the car and strap yourself in with the Willans harnesses that will certainly keep you in place for the ride ahead! _RMP0372.jpg1.1 MB
The Exterior
Even though this car is not road legal, it will not require much work to get it prepared for the test. The car comes with hazards, horn, fog light, cat and silencer etc, so a lot of the work is already done.
All fasteners are aircraft grade aluminium or s/s and the car sits on Avo adjustable coilovers. The bespoke stainless steel exhaust (Zircon coated) and comes with a silencer. _RMP0350.jpg1.18 MB
The Mechanics
Massive spec includes:
Avo coilovers, adjustable for compression and rebound
Alcon calipers
Front & Rear includes handbrake facility
Engine is a Twin Cam 1137 cc Honda - 170BHP @10,000 RPM
6 speed sequential Nova transmissions / Pace dry sump system
Davis Craig digitally controlled electric water pump system
Some car’s appeal write themselves and this is certainly one of them. The car is an absolute joy to behold and has clearly been someone’s passion for a number of years. No expense has been spared on this car and you can see that all over the body and under the bonnet.
The fact that this, could also potentially be made into a road-legal car is a crazy thought! We are positive that, whoever bids for this car will not be disappointed.
This car is built to be enjoyed - and driven very, very quickly!
Notice to bidders
Although every care is taken to ensure this listing is as factual and transparent as possible, all details within the listing are subject to the information provided to us by the seller. Car & Classic does not take responsibility for any information missing from the listing. Please ensure you are satisfied with the vehicle description and all information provided before placing a bid.
As is normal for most auctions, this vehicle is sold as seen, and therefore the Sale of Goods Act 1979 does not apply. All bids are legally binding once placed. Any winning bidder who withdraws from a sale, is subject to our bidders fee charge. Please see our FAQs and T&C's for further information. Viewings of vehicles are encouraged, but entirely at the seller's discretion.
