Lotus Cars, a renowned British manufacturer of sports and racing cars, has a rich history in motorsports. Over the years, the company has produced some of the most iconic racing cars and nurtured exceptional driving talent. Numerous skilled drivers have graced the Lotus team with their remarkable skills and achieved great success. Here, we rank the top seven Lotus drivers in the history of the sport:
1. Jim Clark:
Regarded by many as one of the greatest drivers in the history of Formula One, Jim Clark's association with Lotus is legendary. He won two World Championships (1963, 1965) and secured 25 Grand Prix victories, 22 of which were with Lotus. Clark's exceptional car control, smooth driving style, and innate talent made him a force to be reckoned with. Tragically, his life was cut short in a fatal accident in 1968.
2. Ayrton Senna:
Although Ayrton Senna is often associated with McLaren, it was at Lotus that he gained recognition and established himself as a rising star. Driving for Lotus from 1985 to 1987, Senna showcased his immense talent, securing six victories and numerous pole positions. His mesmerizing qualifying laps and fearless driving style endeared him to fans around the world.
3. Mario Andretti:
The versatile Mario Andretti, who excelled in multiple racing disciplines, enjoyed a successful stint with Lotus. In 1978, he won the Formula One World Championship with the team, securing six wins throughout the season. Andretti's smooth driving style and ability to extract maximum performance from the car played a pivotal role in his triumph.
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4. Graham Hill:
A true legend of motorsport, Graham Hill achieved great success with Lotus during the 1960s. Driving for the team from 1960 to 1969, Hill won two World Championships (1962, 1968) and secured 14 Grand Prix victories. Known for his determination, consistency, and adaptability, Hill's contributions to Lotus's success were significant.
5. Emerson Fittipaldi:
After winning the World Championship with Lotus in 1972, Emerson Fittipaldi became the youngest-ever Formula One champion at the time. Fittipaldi's aggressive driving style and exceptional car control made him a formidable competitor. His skill and tenacity behind the wheel earned him a total of nine Grand Prix victories with Lotus.
6. Nigel Mansell:
Nigel Mansell's partnership with Lotus lasted from 1980 to 1984, during which he showcased his incredible talent and determination. Mansell's never-give-up attitude and aggressive driving style made him a fan favorite. Although he narrowly missed out on a World Championship with Lotus, he secured four Grand Prix wins and laid the foundation for his future successes.
7. Ronnie Peterson:
Ronnie Peterson, the Swedish racing driver known for his flamboyant style, achieved considerable success during his time with Lotus. Peterson's partnership with the team from 1973 to 1978 yielded nine victories. His fearless and audacious driving made him a joy to watch on the track, earning him a devoted following.
While this list highlights some of the most outstanding drivers associated with Lotus, it is important to acknowledge the numerous other talented individuals who contributed to the team's success over the years. Lotus's rich history in motorsport continues to inspire and captivate racing enthusiasts worldwide.
