The Lotus 49 is indeed one of the most iconic and legendary racing cars in motorsport history. Designed by Colin Chapman and Maurice Philippe, the Lotus 49 was a revolutionary Formula 1 car that made its debut in the 1967 season. It introduced several groundbreaking innovations that have since become standard in Formula 1 car design.
Key Features and Achievements:
First Commercial Use of the Cosworth DFV Engine: The Lotus 49 was the first Formula 1 car to be powered by the Cosworth DFV (Double Four Valve) engine. This V8 engine became a game-changer in Formula 1 and was used in various cars for many years to come.
Innovative Monocoque Chassis: The car's chassis was made from aluminum and formed the outer skin of the car, known as a monocoque. This design provided increased rigidity and strength while reducing weight, improving the car's performance.
Inboard Brakes: The Lotus 49 featured inboard brakes, where the brake components were mounted inside the chassis, near the gearbox. This design allowed for better weight distribution and improved aerodynamics.