After building multiple trial cars Colin Chapman introduced his first 'production' car, the Lotus 6, in 1952. The heart of the 6, as it was called, was a custom-built tubular frame. To this frame various Ford derived parts were fitted, the suspension, gearbox and engine. It was available to the general public as kit with various options like a stronger rear axle to cope with more powerful engine.

Like many of Chapman's designs the 6 was a very simple one, yet very effective. It was praised for its very fine handling characteristics. Its fine handling helped its drivers to beat cars that looked much more sophisticated.

After the 6 production run Colin Chapman's Lotus Cars had established itself as a genuine manufacturer with a bright future ahead.

General Specifications

Number Built: approx 110
Weight: 432 kg / 952.4 lb

Drivetrain

Engine: Ford E93A Straight 4
Engine Location: Front , longitudinally mounted
Displacement: 1.172 liter / 71.5 in³
Valvetrain: 2 valves / cylinder, Sidevalve
Fuel Feed: SU Carburettors
Aspiration: Naturally Aspirated
Gearbox: Ford 3 speed Manual
Drive: Rear wheel drive

Performance

Power: 50 bhp / 37 kW @ 5000 rpm
Torque: 77 Nm / 57 ft·lbf @ 3000 rpm
BHP/Liter: 43 bhp / liter
Power to Weight Ratio: 0.12 bhp / kg
Top Speed: 150 km/h / 93 mph
0-60 mph: 15.0 s