A number of Lotus cars have featured in film and television, from the Avengers and the Prisoner to Grand Prix and of course James Bond! On show at the festival will be a Lotus 18/21 that once had a starring role in Midsomer Murders!
The 18, which produced the company’s first Grand Prix victory in the hands of Stirling Moss, refined the Cooper concept of placing the engine behind the driver. This particular car was originally owned by Parnell Racing and in period was driven by Stirling Moss and Tim Parnell. At the end of 1960 it was redesigned with revised suspension and sleeker bodywork.
Around twenty years ago it was acquired by the present owner in need of restoration. After three years of work it once more took to the race track, winning several trophies and made its TV debut recently as the villain’s car in Midsomer Murders.
You can see more information on other rare Lotus’s on display at the festival here: lotus-festival.com/special-lotus-cars, and Classic Team Lotus demonstrations here: lotus-festival.com/classic-lotus-racing-demonstrations.
