An Antidote to Modern Cars
Modern cars are often characterized by large dimensions, significant weight, and an overabundance of technology, which sometimes interferes with the pure driving experience. The British company Lola Cars, known for its racing cars from the 1960s to the early 2000s, believes it has a counter to this trend. Revived in 2024 to participate in Formula E, the company is now working on a limited series of a supercar inspired by its legendary racing T70, but modernized and available in both track and road versions. This can be compared to Scuderia Cameron Glickenhaus cars, but with an even greater emphasis on basic driving sensations.
Technical Specifications of the Road Version
The first model, known as the T70S GT, is equipped with a 6.2-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine that produces 500 hp and 617 Nm of torque. The unit is paired with a six-speed manual transmission that drives the rear wheels. According to Lola, this model accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 2.9 seconds and reaches a top speed of 322 km/h.
Track Version
In comparison, the T70S is an exclusively track version and is equipped with a different engine – a 5.0-liter naturally aspirated Chevrolet V8 with 530 hp and 576 Nm of torque. It uses a transaxle similar to that installed on the T70 from the 1960s. This model is said to accelerate to 100 km/h in 2.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 326 km/h.
Modern Technology in a Retro Shell
Although the appearance and feel of the car are very similar to the original, modern technologies are used in it. For example, it is built around a special lightweight chassis made from plant fibers, basalt fiber, and resin derived from sugar cane. This provides a look and strength similar to carbon fiber, but without the use of petrochemical products. The company calls this the Lola Natural Composite System. Thanks to this construction, the weight of the GT is only 890 kg, and the T70S is even lighter at 860 kg.
Spartan Interior and Limited Production Run
The interior of both models will be minimalist and simple, as befits true racing cars. The GT version will have climate control, but that’s where the comfort advantages end. Lola Cars has not announced the price for the T70S and T70S GT, but it is known that only 16 units will be produced.
Lola’s return with such a model is an interesting step against the backdrop of the general trend towards electrification and autonomy. It appeals to the niche of collectors and enthusiasts who seek authentic driving sensations without the mediation of numerous electronic systems. The use of innovative eco-friendly materials for the chassis also shows that even in such a segment, one can experiment with sustainable development without sacrificing performance. The success of this project could be a signal to other manufacturers that the market still has room for specialized, emotional cars, even in the 21st century.