Few sights are as iconic as a Lotus in John Player Special colors, particularly one piloted by Ayrton Senna during his two years with the team. A similar vehicle is being auctioned by RM Sotheby’s after restoration in the United Kingdom. The firm anticipates it will fetch between $9.5 million and $12 million in a sealed-bid auction.
The 1986 Lotus 98T was built upon the achievements of the 97T, in which Senna secured his inaugural F1 victory the year prior. The one up for auction is Chassis 98T-3, where the Brazilian claimed victory at the 1986 United States Grand Prix and Spanish Grand Prix, achieved five pole positions, and added another three podium finishes across eight outings. It was one of four chassis utilized by Lotus during the 1986 season.
While it may not have contended for the championship, the 98T is arguably the last truly excellent Lotus F1 car. Created by Gérard Ducarouge—who had previously worked on Jackie Stewart’s championship-winning Matras—the 98T was more compact than its predecessor, the 97T, due to a smaller fuel cell from new regulations that reduced race-day fuel allowances by 1.3 gallons.
These were also the final days of enormously over-boosted turbocharged engines. Lotus had utilized Renault engines previously, but in 1986 it effectively became Renault’s official team following the end of the French manufacturer’s own operations. Renault did not hold back, providing Lotus with a 1.5-liter V6 that revved to 12,500 rpm (up from the former engine’s 11,000 rpm) and produced around 900 horsepower in race settings. Special qualifying engines yielded well over 1,000 hp but were only viable for a few laps.
These throwaway engines represent a stark contrast to today’s F1, yet epitomized the cutting-edge technology of the era. The chassis, constructed from a blend of aluminum and carbon fiber, featured machined aluminum bulkheads, with body panels made of composite skins lined with aluminum foil.
The 98T was the last Formula 1 vehicle from the original Team Lotus to sport the JPS livery. The currently known Alpine team adopted a similar look while competing as Lotus in the 2010s, but without tobacco sponsorship. Haas’ unfortunate collaboration with Rich Energy also resulted in cars featuring a similar appearance. However, neither came close to matching the competitiveness of the black-and-gold vehicles of the 1970s and 1980s.
Lotus transitioned to a yellow-and-blue Camel livery and Honda engines in 1987. The new 99T was reasonably competitive, with two victories, but losing factory Renault support disadvantaged Lotus, a gap it could not bridge when Senna departed for McLaren the following year. The team would diminish and ultimately cease operations in 1994. Essentially, the 98T marked the conclusion of an era in several respects.
**1986 Lotus F1 Car Driven by Senna in JPS Colors Up for Grabs for About $10 Million**
In the realm of Formula 1, few vehicles possess as much historical importance and attraction as the 1986 Lotus 98T, famously driven by the legendary Ayrton Senna. This specific model, featured in the iconic John Player Special (JPS) colors, is now on the market, with a price estimate of around $10 million. This article explores the car’s background, its importance in motorsport, and the elements influencing its elevated valuation.
**Historical Overview**
The 1986 Formula 1 season was crucial for both Ayrton Senna and the Lotus squad. The Lotus 98T utilized the Renault EF15 turbocharged engine, offering outstanding performance and speed. Senna, celebrated for his remarkable talent and competitive nature, demonstrated his abilities in this car, achieving outstanding results throughout the year. The blend of Senna’s driving skill and the cutting-edge design of the 98T rendered it a formidable competitor on the circuit.
**Design and Technology**
The Lotus 98T was born from the inventive engineering that defined Lotus in the 1980s. Crafted by renowned engineer Gérard Ducarouge, the car showcased a carbon fiber monocoque design, which was pioneering for its time. This build granted both durability and reduced weight, boosting the car’s performance. The aerodynamic shape, combined with the robust Renault engine, enabled the 98T to attain remarkable speeds, making it a favorite among fans and racers alike.
**Ayrton Senna’s Influence**
Ayrton Senna is frequently hailed as one of the greatest drivers in the history of motorsport. His time with Lotus, especially during the 1986 season, cemented his status as a fierce competitor. Senna’s knack for maximizing performance from the Lotus 98T led to numerous podium finishes, including a notable win at the 1986 Portuguese Grand Prix. The car not only signifies a critical moment in Senna’s career but also embodies the competitive spirit of racing in a transformative period for Formula 1.
**The JPS Colors**
The John Player Special livery is among the most recognizable in motorsport history. The striking black and gold design, along with the distinct branding of John Player & Sons, became emblematic of the Lotus team during the 1980s. The JPS colors enhanced the car’s aesthetic appeal and also contributed to its legacy, making it a coveted piece of racing history.
**Market Assessment**
The asking price of roughly $10 million reflects the car’s uniqueness, historical importance, and the lasting legacy of Ayrton Senna. Collectors and enthusiasts are attracted to the 1986 Lotus 98T not only for its performance achievements but also for its association with one of the sport’s most legendary figures. The value of such historic racing cars has rapidly increased in recent years, fueled by a growing interest in motorsport memorabilia and the nostalgia related to legendary drivers and teams.
**Final Thoughts**
The opportunity to acquire the 1986 Lotus 98T driven by Ayrton Senna in JPS colors presents a unique chance for collectors and motorsport fans alike. As a representation of innovation, competition, and the unyielding spirit of one of racing’s most celebrated drivers, this car serves as a monument to the rich legacy of Formula 1. With its impressive design, striking aesthetics, and connection to Ayrton Senna, the Lotus 98T transcends being merely a vehicle; it is a piece of motorsport history that continues to enchant fans globally.