1956 Lotus Eleven

Soon to be presented, this exceptionally rare Lotus Eleven Series 1 (1.5L) represents one of the most desirable and versatile early competition sports cars of the 1950s. Delivered new on 6 December 1956 to Mr. C. Kauffman, this example stands apart from the majority of Eleven models thanks to its highly uncommon factory-installed FWB 1.5-litre engine, paired with an MG gearbox, a De Dion 9-41 (4.5) rear axle and completed with dual fuel tanks.

Shipped to Venezuela aboard the SS Eden on 18 January 1957, the car arrived in Caracas on 3 February 1957 and soon embarked on an active competition career. On 3 November 1957, chassis 265 competed in the Grand Prix of Venezuela, driven by Ojanguren and Swiss racing driver Peter Monteverdi, before continuing to race extensively throughout South America until 1966.

In 1988, the car was acquired by an Italian enthusiast who retained ownership for nearly three decades, during which time the Lotus successfully participated in some of Europe’s most prestigious historic events, including the Mille Miglia, Coppa d’Oro delle Dolomiti, and Coppa degli Appennini, among others.

Today, this remarkable Eleven is accompanied by a Belgian registration, as well as FIVA papers and Mille Miglia Registro documentation. This rare combination allows the car to be road-legal— while also making it fully eligible for the world’s leading historic motorsport events, including:

Mille Miglia

Goodwood

Le Mans Classic

Monaco Historic

...

As an official Mille Miglia race main sponsor, we look forward to once again accompanying this exceptional Lotus back to Brescia, where its story continues.