1956 Lotus Eleven Series I Le Mans: A Storied Racer Built for the Bold

At The Coolector, we have a deep appreciation for machines that capture the perfect blend of heritage, performance, and striking design. Enter the 1956 Lotus Eleven Series I Le Mans, a masterpiece of mid-century motoring, now available from RM Sotheby’s for an estimated $185,000 to $225,000. This Lotus isn’t just another vintage sports car—it’s a living, breathing piece of racing history with an impressive lineage to match.

The Lotus Eleven is one of the most successful and iconic models from the legendary British marque. This particular model is thought to be one of just 10 “wide chassis” Elevens ever built and the only known example to feature a “long door frame”—making it a true rarity. Powered by the highly desirable Coventry Climax FWB 1,508-cc engine, this Eleven delivers an exhilarating driving experience worthy of its illustrious pedigree. Originally built to comply with Colin Chapman’s interpretation of FIA’s Appendix Group C regulations for the 24 Hours of Le Mans, this wider chassis provided the cabin space required for the era’s endurance races, and the result was nothing short of spectacular.

This Eleven is the very definition of a car with character. It was constructed in 1956 and underwent inspection by the Historic Lotus Register in the 1970s. Though it lost its original chassis plate early in its life, it has carried the chassis number provided by the Register ever since, officially cementing its place in Lotus history. The long doors—an improvisation by Lotus to enable faster driver changes during the 1957 12 Hours of Sebring—make this particular Eleven even more distinctive. While some Elevens featured either a “wide chassis” or “long door,” this is believed to be the only one with both.

The car’s journey through history is nothing short of thrilling. It found its way into the collection of Count Hubertus von Dönhoff in the mid-1970s and was later acquired by well-known collector and racer Jason Wright in 1989, who had it restored in 1999. From there, it’s seen the likes of Italy and Belgium, competing in prestigious events like the Mille Miglia Storica three times, the Zoute Grand Prix, and even the Mille Miglia Experience UAE. Currently, it comes with a complimentary entry for the 2024 Mille Miglia Experience—a rare opportunity for any enthusiast to take part in this storied rally.

Finished in classic racing green and with a known history dating back to 1969, this Lotus Eleven isn’t just about looks. It’s a car that’s lived, raced, and conquered. With its 1.5-litre Coventry Climax engine still intact, it’s a testament to the engineering prowess of Colin Chapman and his team. The accompanying history file, complete with FIA HTP papers, FIVA, CSAI passports, and old UK registration documents, serves as a reminder of its incredible journey through the decades.

For the discerning collector, the 1956 Lotus Eleven Series I Le Mans is more than just an acquisition—it’s an invitation to become part of an enduring legacy. With eligibility for many of the world’s most exclusive historic racing events, it’s a car that begs to be driven, admired, and cherished. If you’re looking for a piece of motorsport history that’s as captivating as it is rare, this Lotus Eleven is undoubtedly worth a closer look.

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