Sold | 1952 Lotus MkVI Prototype From the estate of the late Graham Nearn, founder of Caterham Cars

Page Contents

Track live values and receive listing alerts

Enquire Now

View All Images

£45,000

1952 Lotus MkVI Prototype From the estate of the late Graham Nearn, founder of Caterham Cars

United Kingdom • 19 Jun 2024

Vehicle Details

AI Listing Summary

This is the 1952 Lotus MkVI Prototype, a historically significant vehicle from the estate of Graham Nearn. It famously achieved 2nd place in its first two Silverstone races and was previously displayed at the British Motor Museum. Restored to its original specification, it retains a 1.5 litre Ford engine and unique provenance, making it an important piece of Lotus history.

Condition

7

The car has been restored to its original specification and has been well-maintained. While it has some minor dents and scrapes, these are part of its history and do not detract from its overall condition. The interior has been re-trimmed, which is a positive.

/ 10

Transmission:

[Transmission]

Chassis No:

L1761

Odometer:

[Odometer Reading]

Reg Number:

XML 6

RHD/LHD:

RHD

There is no doubting Colin Chapman’s genius in terms of mathematics, stress analysis or talent spotting (the roster of designers, drivers and engineers he employed remains exceptional).

However, Lotus may never have conquered the world of motorsport or become a much-loved sportscar manufacturer if Colin Chapman had not been helped by his future wife Hazel Williams (and her parents), the Allen brothers (Michael and Nigel) or his father Stanley.

Trainee dentists with a petrolhead father, Michael and Nigel Allen spent their spare time tinkering with cars in an unusually well-equipped domestic garage.

A fellow Austin Seven enthusiast who could not help but be impressed with his near neighbours’ facilities, Chapman befriended the Allen brothers and convinced them to build and campaign a trio of cars in 750 Motor Club events for the 1951 season.

In the end, the triumvirate only completed one car.

Known as the Lotus MkIII and road registered as ‘LMU 3’, its successes were such that Chapm...