Designed by Lotus founder, Colin Chapman, along with Maurice Philippe, the Ford Cosworth-powered Lotus 72 was the longest lasting model in F1, being raced by Team Lotus for six consecutive seasons.
The car featured several innovative solutions such as its “wedge” shape profile, low unsprung weight, side radiators, variable rate torsion bar springs and inboard front brakes.
The monocoque was built from sheets of aluminium and magnesium that were glued and riveted together around steel internal bulkheads.
The car was introduced partway into the 1970 season, driven by Jochen Rindt and John Miles. Rindt made the car successful, winning the Dutch, French, British and German Grands Prix in quick succession. Rindt was killed in a qualifying crash at Monza, driving the 72 with its wings removed. His replacement, Emerson Fittipaldi, won the US GP, helping Rindt become F1's only posthumous world champion. Their combined points helped Lotus to its fourth constructors' championship.
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