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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.

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1962→1963 Lotus 23B

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→1963 Lotus 23B

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

1962→1963 Lotus 23B

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