The 1960 Lotus Model 19 was inspired by John Cooper's new Monaco, the rear engine Lotus 19 utilized much of the same suspension, braking and engine components as the highly successful Lotus 18. it carried a fully enclosed racing body, with a mandatory second seat and a multi-tube space frame chassis. Lotus built only 16 of this model.
Some were powered by the all-conquering 2.5-liter Coventry Climax FPF series double overhead cam inline four-cylinder engine, producing 240 horsepower. This engine had propelled Lotus to five race wins in the 1959 grand prix season and eight of ten races in the 1960 season.
When the 19 arrived in the competition spotlight at Riverside Raceway in 1960, it ushered in a new era. Stirling Moss and Dan Gurney obliterated the existing records, Gurney shaved over four seconds off the previous record. Sir Stiring gets credit for the 19's first win, at its competition debut in Karlkoga, Sweden.
Overview
- Model: Lotus 19 (Monte Carlo)
- Year: 1960
- Designer: Colin Chapman
- Engine: Various engines, including the Coventry Climax FPF 2.5 L Inline-4
Historical Significance
- Innovative Design: The Lotus 19 was developed from the Lotus 17 and was designed to compete in sports car racing. It was noted for its advanced design, lightweight construction, and superior handling.
- Racing Success: The Lotus 19 achieved significant success in various racing series, including the FIA World Sports Car Championship and the United States Road Racing Championship (USRRC).
Design and Specifications
- Engine: The Lotus 19 was typically equipped with a 2.5-liter Coventry Climax FPF inline-four engine, though it was also fitted with other engines, including American V8s, for different racing applications. The Coventry Climax engine produced around 240 horsepower.
- Transmission: 5-speed manual gearbox.
- Chassis: The car featured a space frame chassis that was both lightweight and rigid, contributing to its excellent handling characteristics.
- Body: The body was made of fiberglass, designed to be aerodynamic and lightweight. The low, sleek profile of the car was typical of Chapman's emphasis on reducing weight and improving performance.
- Suspension: The suspension setup included independent front and rear suspensions with coil springs and wishbones, providing exceptional handling and stability.
- Brakes: Disc brakes on all four wheels, offering effective stopping power and advanced performance for the era.
Design Features
- Exterior: The Lotus 19 had a distinctive, aerodynamic design with smooth lines and a low profile. The design minimized drag and maximized speed and efficiency.
- Interior: The interior was minimalistic and focused on racing. It featured essential controls and gauges, with a driver's seat designed to keep the driver secure during high-speed maneuvers.
Achievements and Legacy
- Racing Success: The Lotus 19 had numerous victories in its career. Notable drivers such as Stirling Moss, Dan Gurney, and Jim Clark piloted the car to success in various international races. Stirling Moss, in particular, had several wins driving the Lotus 19.
- Influence: The car's advanced engineering and design influenced subsequent Lotus models and other manufacturers. The principles of lightweight construction and superior handling became hallmarks of Lotus cars.
- Endurance and Versatility: The Lotus 19 was adaptable to different engines and racing formats, demonstrating versatility in various competitions.
Legacy
- Collector's Item: Today, the Lotus 19 is a highly sought-after collector's car. Its racing pedigree, innovative design, and connection to famous drivers make it a prized piece of motorsport history.
- Impact on Motorsports: The success and design of the Lotus 19 reinforced Lotus's reputation in the racing world and contributed to the development of future sports racing cars. Chapman's focus on weight reduction and handling over sheer power became influential in racing car design.
Taken at the Amelia Concourse.
You may purchase a print on the 1960 Lotus Model 19 in our dElegance 2012 online gallery.