Lotus 6
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After building multiple trials cars Colin Chapman introduced his first 'production' car, the Lotus 6, in 1952. The heart of the Mark 6, as it was called, was a fully stressed space frame. To this frame various Ford derived parts were fitted, the suspension, gearbox and engine. It was available to the general public as kit wherein the customer could either install a Ford engine or one of his own choosing.
The Mk 6 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 Mk.6 space frame weighed only 55lbs (25 kg)), and the suspension incorporated the latest advances. The prototype Mark 6 chassis was built up by the Progress Chassis Company and the aluminum 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 Ford mechanical parts were sourced from the Ford Prefect. The Lotus Mark 6 became a popular sight on Britain's racetracks and in winner's circles. The Mark 6 was praised for its very fine handling characteristics. In competition, it beat many more powerful and expensive cars.
An important facet of the success of the kit was the fact that Chapman offered a comprehensive package in the Mark 6, including most of the special parts needed, and not just the chassis. The Mk.6 chassis came with mounting points for several different engines including the 1172 Ford 10, the larger 1500cc Consul, the exalted Coventry Climax, and the MG TF unit. Kits were standardized as far as possible for volume production, however, some units were customized per the owners wishes The company even modified the owner's parts, if needed.
The success of the Mark 6 in competition and sales established Chapman as a up-and-coming manufacturer of specialty cars.
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[edit] General Specifications
Number Built: approx 110
Weight: 432 kg / 952.4 lb
[edit] Drivetrain
Engine: Ford E93A Straight 4
Engine Location: Front , longitudinally mounted
Displacement: 1.172 litre / 71.5 in³
Valvetrain: 2 valves/cylinder, Sidevalve
Fuel Feed: SU Carburetters
Aspiration: Naturally Aspirated
Gearbox: Ford 3 speed Manual
Drive: Rear wheel drive
[edit] Performance
Power: 50 bhp / 37 kW @ 5000 rpm
Torque: 77 Nm / 57 ft·lbf @ 3000 rpm
BHP/Litre: 43 bhp / litre
Power to Weight Ratio: 0.12 bhp / kg
Top Speed: 150 km/h / 93 mph
0-60 mph: 15.0 s
[edit] See also
[edit] External links
- Ultimate Car Page, photo of a "Lotus 6"
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