1962-1963 Lotus 23B
Taking engineering cues from the Lotus 22 single-seat race car was the Lotus 23. It was made for a variety of engines including the Lotus-Ford Twincam. Some were fitted with 1-litre Cosworth engine, but whatever was fitted, these cars were known for their lightweight construction and exceptional handling.
Related: Lotus Race Car List / Lotus Current Lineup / All Lotus Models / Lotus News
Specs & Performance
| submitted by | Richard Owen |
| type | Racing Car |
| production years | 1962 – 1963 |
| built at | England |
| body stylist | Frank Costin |
| engineers | Colin Chapman |
| production | 131 |
| engine | Various Inline-4 Engines |
| position | Mid, Longitudinal |
| body / frame | Fiberglass Body over Tubular Steel Spaceframe |
| driven wheels | RWD |
| front brakes | Discs |
| rear brakes | Discs |
| f suspension | Double Wishbones w/Coil Springs, Armstrong Dampers |
| r suspension | Double Wishbones w/Coil Springs, Armstrong Dampers |
| curb weight | 454 kg / 1000 lbs |
| wheelbase | 2286 mm / 90.0 in |
| front track | 1308 mm / 51.5 in |
| rear track | 1273 mm / 50.1 in |
| length | 3530 mm / 139.0 in |
| width | 1524 mm / 60.0 in |
| height | 660 mm / 26.0 in |
| transmission | Hewland 5 speed Manual |
Lotus 23B Prices
1962 Lotus 23B 23S80 – sold for $181,500. A Landmark British Racing Car. Notable Provenance. Superbly Restored to Concours Level. Displayed at the 2008 Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance. Ideally Specified and Mechanically Sorted. A Vintage Racing “Giant Killer”. Auction Source: The 2013 Scottsdale Auctions by Gooding & Company
1963 Lotus 23B 23-S-80 – sold for $203,500. Formerly the Property of Brian Redman and Bob Snodgrass. A Landmark British Racing Car. A Notable Provenance. Superbly Restored to Concours Level. Displayed at the 2008 Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance. Mechanically Sorted.
Today, this 23B is still as eye-catching as the day it emerged from restoration, with unmarked bodywork and interior, and a clean and well- maintained engine compartment. With only two hours on the engine past the break-in period, it stands ready to deliver the lively, responsive, aggressive thrill on the road for which these cars are renowned. Auction Source: 2011 Amelia Island Auction by Gooding & Company
