LOTUS
TYPE 72
The one that won the era
THE BEST & MOST BEAUTIFUL
LOTUS TYPE 72 AND THE GOLDEN ERA OF FORMULA 1When it comes to sports, the numbers don’t always tell you everything. But when it comes to the Lotus Type 72, the numbers speak volumes. Over its 6-year career, the Type 72 delivered 20 Grand Prix victories, 3 Constructor’s Championships and two Driver’s titles.
It makes the Lotus Type 72 arguably the most outstanding Formula 1 car of its decade — if not of all time.
A magnificent machine that embodies the Lotus philosophy of efficiency and aerodynamic innovation. And became even more unforgettable by introducing the iconic and beloved black and gold John Player Special livery.
WEDGE NOSE &
TWIN WINGS
The light-alloy monocoque design, extremely lightweight at the minimum allowed 530kg, was designed to accommodate its twin wings from the start through its wedge-shaped nose. Greatly improving downforce and stability.
THE ENGINEERING
HOW THE LOTUS TYPE 72 CHANGED RACE CAR DESIGN
Every aspect of the Type 72 revealed new and radical thinking. It was an aerodynamic masterpiece, which was undeniably visible — starting with the side-mounted radiators.
The gearbox and Cosworth 3-litre DFV engine remained open to the elements, but elsewhere attention to aerodynamics was impeccable. With flush rivets on external planes, slim nose profile and carefully contoured rear sections. Resulting in the best possible penetration and airflow, a truly innovative F1 design for its time.
Extremely lightweight
The Lotus Type 72 tipped the scale at exactly 530kg, which was the minimum allowed. Even when oil and water had been added, it was one of the lightest F1 cars ever.
Powerful package
Power came from the proven Ford Cosworth DFV V8, delivering 440–475 bhp through a compact Hewland FG five-speed gearbox. The package was not only light and efficient but also one of the most powerful on the grid.
Another Chapman Blueprint
As was the case with so many iconic designs that went before it, the impact of the Lotus 72 was long-lasting. Side radiators and wedge-shaped aerodynamics became the standard for Formula 1 cars that followed. Proving once again how the vision of Colin Chapman was unmatched and years ahead of its time — influencing every Lotus F1 car that came after.
“This, gentlemen, is perhaps the most perfect example of aerodynamics at work in the history of motor racing.”
~ Colin Chapman
THE RACING YEARS
TYPE 72 X 2 WORLD CHAMPIONS
The Lotus Type 72 made its debut at the 1970 Spanish Grand Prix. The car didn’t find success until Jochen Rindt found its winning form at the Dutch GP at Zandvoort. The checkered flag was followed by more victories at the races in France, Germany and Britain, showcasing the dominance of the Type 72.
Rindt tragically lost his life at Monza, but still took the Drivers’ Championship posthumously. Team Lotus also won the Constructors’ title.
Fittipaldi and Team Lotus win 1972 Formula 1 titles
The car was renamed the Lotus Type 72D and Brazilian driver Emerson Fittipaldi led the 1972 Formula 1 assault for Team Lotus. With a victory at Monza, both the Drivers’ and Constructors’ Championship were clinched. Making Fittipaldi the youngest F1 World Champion ever.
The record stood for decades, until Fernando Alonso ended Michael Schumacher’s reign in 2005 — at only 24 years old.
In 1973 Lotus won the Constructors’ title again, but with no team orders, Fittipaldi and Ronnie Peterson split results. They finished 2nd and 3rd behind Jackie Stewart, who took the Drivers’ crown.
The car was still racing in the 1975 season with Peterson and Jacky Ickx but there were no further wins. The era of the Type 72 was over and it was replaced by the Type 77 for 1976.
THE ACCOMPLISHMENTS
TITLES AND RECORDS OF THE LOTUS TYPE 72
The impact of the Lotus Type 72 in Formula 1 and Lotus racing history is astonishing. 20 Grand Prix victories delivered Team Lotus 3 Constructors’ and 2 Drivers’ Championships. The car played a pivotal role in the front line of the Formula 1 competition for 6 years.
Few Formula 1 cars can claim the mix of longevity, innovation, and success of the Lotus 72. Its wedge shape and radiator layout became yet another Lotus blueprint for future F1 designs. To top it off, its liveries became world famous cultural icons.
THE DRIVERS
LEGENDS BEHIND THE WHEEL OF THE TYPE 72
The Lotus Type 72’s story was defined by some of the sport’s greatest talents.
Jochen Rindt drove the car to its first wins before he met his tragic fate and was awarded with Formula 1’s only posthumous title. Emerson Fittipaldi, known for his smooth and delicate driving, took Lotus straight to the top in 1972. While Ronnie Peterson proved to be a more than competitive teammate for Fittipaldi.
Peterson and Jacky Ickx had the honours of piloting the car in its final competitive season in 1975.
DRIVE THE
NEXT GENERATION